Bengaluru/Mangaluru: Taking a cue from historic Jallikattu protest put up by people of Tamil Nadu, even people of Coastal Karnataka are gearing up to stage a a protest on similar lines to save Kambala, a traditional sport of coastal belt.
Kambala Committee President Ashok Rai, on Sunday said they are planning to hold a massive demonstration in Mangaluru in next few days, in which participation of 50,000 people including Sandalwood actors like Prakash Rai and politicians are expected. The protesters would demand lifting of ban on Kambala.
“We have been motivated by the success of Jallikattu movement in Tamil Nadu. We are planning a massive protest in Mangaluru in which 50,000 people including film stars like Prakash Rai and Jaggesh, besides politicians, are expected to participate. Most probably, the demonstration will be held on January 26,” Rai said adding that there are plans to have parade of 200 Kambala buffaloes during the demonstration.
He said that the Committee will try and get as much support as possible from organisation including right-wing outfits and a few from Tamil Nadu in this fight for Kambala.
Rai said the demonstration will be held for three to four hours, before handing over a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, demanding to lift the ban on Kambala, one of the major demands.
Depending on the outcome of the case pending in Karnataka High Court (hearing pending on January 30), the Committee will plan its next course of action.
Meanwhile, Tulunad Rakshana Vedike is planning to hold a protest at Deputy Commissioner’s office on January 24.
Vedike President Yogesh Shetty Jeppu said banning the traditional sport is wrong and PETA’s argument that buffaloes were not fit for running is a misconception.