Raichur: Kambala, a rural sport is known to everyone in coastal districts of Karnataka where buffalos race to win competitions in the wet paddy fields during rainy season. However, a race involving oxen drew the attention of large crowds when they showed their might by pulling tones of load in quick time. It was great spectacle for people gathered around as they applauded the efforts of mute animals and their care takers.
This time the venue was turned out be ganj campus in Raichur, a city not in news but drew the oxen and the care takers from not only the home state of Karnataka, but from neighbouring states of Telangana and Andhra.
What was amazing was the enthusiasm among the participants and the festive spirit that prevailed during the race as crowds went rapturous. It was jointly organised by Munnur Kapu Balija Samaja, Directorate of Kannada, Agricultural producing Marketing Corporation and Hatti Gold mines.
Around 11 pairs took part in the race where one looked stronger than the other. Oxen (in pairs) were asked to pull a weight of 2 tonnne load to a maximum distance in the allotted time of 20 minutes with the help from care takers and owners.
The winners in the contest are as follows:
It was an open competition which managed to generate lot of interest in rural sport among the people who took part as participants and spectators. It may be recalled that controversial race Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu and races involving bulls and bison in far off Spain do draw thousands of people to the venues!
