Puttur: Tourism Minister H.K. Patil has approved a grant of Rs 1.20 crore for 24 Kambala events in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. The tourism department will provide Rs 5 lakh for each event as financial support.

The announcement follows a request made during the recent legislative session by MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, who urged the government to allocate Rs 5 lakh to each Kambala festival in these districts. Additionally, the District Kambala Committee, led by President Belapu Deviprasad Shetty, had submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, ministers, and MLAs, seeking financial aid for the traditional sports event.

Government’s Approval

MLA Ashok Kumar Rai said that Minister H.K. Patil has directed the release of the funds in response to these appeals. This support is expected to enhance the grandeur and organization of the Kambala events, a significant part of the coastal districts’ cultural heritage.

Organizers and enthusiasts of the traditional sport have warmly welcomed the decision.