The rhythmic, thunderous sound of hooves pounding the wet track echoed through the night, culminating in a historic moment for traditional sports. At the Moodushedde Sri Gopalakrishna Kambala in Mangaluru, a new benchmark was established, sending waves of excitement through the gathered crowd.
A Record-Breaking Sprint Through the Slush
In a breathtaking display of speed and power, the buffalo pair owned and trained by Sandeep Shetty from Puttur created history. His champion buffaloes, named Dhavala and Krishna, blazed down the 145-meter-long slush track in the prestigious Negilu Senior category. They clocked an astonishing time of 9.02 seconds, shattering the previous record.
The old record of 9.17 seconds was convincingly eclipsed by this phenomenal run. This event was a highlight of the second day of the Kambala festival, held on Saturday night. The achievement wasn't just a personal victory for Shetty but a celebrated moment for the local community and enthusiasts of this ancient Tuluva tradition.
Consistent Dominance on the Kambala Circuit
Sandeep Shetty is no stranger to the winner's podium. His buffaloes have been in formidable form this season, showcasing remarkable consistency. Just a week prior to this record-breaking feat, the same pair, Dhavala and Krishna, had secured a victory in the Negilu Senior event at the Miyaru Kambala in Bantwal.
This back-to-back success underscores the meticulous training and exceptional care invested in the animals. Kambala is not merely a race; it is a symphony of coordination between the jockey, the buffaloes, and the handler. Shetty's recent triumphs highlight his mastery over this complex and demanding sport.
The Stage: Moodushedde Sri Gopalakrishna Kambala
The record was set at a significant venue. The Moodushedde Sri Gopalakrishna Kambala is one of the premier events in the annual Kambala calendar. The festival, a vibrant part of coastal Karnataka's cultural fabric, spans two action-packed days.
The first day of the event was held on Friday, February 23, with the record-setting second day following on Saturday, February 24. The atmosphere at these events is electric, with spectators cheering passionately for their favorite jockeys and buffalo pairs, celebrating a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Kambala itself is a traditional buffalo race integral to the agrarian lifestyle of the Tulu Nadu region. The sport involves a pair of buffaloes tethered to a plough-like device, guided by a farmer-jockey who sprints alongside them, urging them to maximum speed through parallel waterlogged tracks.
Beyond the Record: A Celebration of Heritage
While the new Negilu Senior record is a headline-grabbing athletic achievement, its significance runs deeper. Events like the Moodushedde Kambala serve as a powerful platform for preserving and promoting a unique regional heritage. They bring communities together, support local economies, and keep a centuries-old tradition alive and thriving in the modern era.
The success of Sandeep Shetty and his buffaloes adds another thrilling chapter to the rich history of Kambala. It sets a new standard of excellence for other participants to aspire to in future competitions. As the Kambala season progresses, all eyes will now be on this champion pair to see if they can continue their dominant streak and perhaps, set even more records.
