Kambala is an annual festival in the farming belts of Karnataka during the winter when contestants sprint along waterlogged muddy fields holding a rope attached to two buffaloes. The events are organized between November and March every year.

Participants sprint through a field, which is normally either 132m or 142m, with two buffalo that are tethered together. It is believed that the race is held to propitiate the Gods for a good harvest, besides being a recreational sport for farmers.

In the past, the Kambala sport has attracted strong criticism from animal rights groups. The PETA had earlier approached the Karnataka High Court alleging Kambala involves cruelty to animals. The high court agreed and banned the sport, which led to mass outrage. However, soon after, the state government passed an ordinance or executive order to allow it, subject to some conditions.