Aikala Village Gears Up for Historic Kambala Golden Jubilee Celebrations
The historic Aikalabava Kanthabare-Boodabare Kambala is set to mark its golden jubilee with grand celebrations at Aikala village in Mulki taluk on February 7 and 8. This significant milestone will be commemorated as a vibrant community festival, blending tradition with contemporary festivities.
Comprehensive Festival Program Announced
Kambala Samiti president and State Kambala Association president Deviprasad Shetty Belapu revealed detailed plans for the celebrations during a press briefing on Monday. The committee has organized an extensive program that includes religious ceremonies, social gatherings, sports competitions, and health-related activities, ensuring participation from all community segments.
Nearly 220 pairs of buffaloes are expected to compete in this landmark 50th edition of the kambala event, making it one of the most significant gatherings in recent memory. The celebrations will extend beyond the main event with 'Aikalotsava,' a week-long festival commencing on February 3 and concluding on February 8.
Cultural and Religious Highlights
The 'Aikalotsava' festival will feature various religious and cultural programs that highlight the region's rich heritage. A notable performance by the Kateel Yakshagana Mela is scheduled for February 6, where they will present 'Devi Mahatme,' adding artistic splendor to the celebrations.
Shetty emphasized the spiritual significance of the event, explaining, "Kambala is held in Aikala to commemorate the twin local deities Kanthabare and Boodabare, who are regarded as protectors of the region." As part of the golden jubilee preparations, the Nagalaya and Brahmasthana shrines have been renovated to enhance the sacred atmosphere.
A special Punaprathishta and Brahmakalashotsava ceremony for the deities will be conducted at the Aikalabava Dharma Chavadi, further enriching the religious dimension of the festivities.
Inauguration and Awards Ceremony
The kambala races will be inaugurated by vastu expert Chandrashekhara Swami at 9:30 AM on February 7, setting the stage for two days of thrilling competitions. In the evening at 6:30 PM, SCDCC Bank chairman M N Rajendra Kumar will be honored with the prestigious 'Kambala Ratna Award' in recognition of his substantial contributions to the cooperative sector and unwavering support for kambala traditions.
Competition Categories and Prizes
The kambala races will be conducted across multiple categories, showcasing the skill and strength of both buffaloes and jockeys:
- Negilu Kiriya
- Negilu Hiriya
- Hagga Kiriya
- Hiriya
- Adda Halage
- Kane Halage
Winners will receive attractive rewards, with first-place finishers awarded one sovereign gold medals and second-place winners receiving 0.5-pawan gold medals. All buffalo pairs reaching the semi-finals will be presented with silver medals and cash prizes, while every kambala jockey will receive certificates along with monetary rewards.
In a gesture of appreciation, owners of all participating buffaloes will also be honored during the celebrations, acknowledging their role in preserving this cherished tradition.
