Dakshina Kannada, Feb. 9 -- More than 160 pairs of buffaloes took part in the 15th edition of the Jaya Vijaya Jodukare Kambala, a traditional buffalo race that is set to conclude on Sunday.

Scores of buffaloes have been specially groomed and trained for the race that began in Mangaluru city on Saturday, on the banks of the Netravati River. This Kambala attracted thousands of spectators from across the region for the spectacular water buffalo race.

This race is an age old tradition involving water buffalos, and is deeply rooted in the culture of coastal Karnataka. Kambala follows from the expression 'kampa-kala'; the word 'Kampa' means to a slushy, muddy field. The buffaloes are decorated with coloured headpieces made of brass and silver...