India is a country with a rich culture not only in the diversity of festivals but also in sports. Many sports like Kabaddi, Kushti, Lagori, Langdi, etc I have already discussed here, if you haven’t read those, then you can search on our site or click on the names. Well, today we will be talking about some Weird Indian Sports That You Never Knew 2023.
The sports which I am going to mention here originated from the cultures and beliefs of different regions of India. Some are played for physical improvement while some of them are dedicated to gods they believe in and some even for praising their animals.
These sports might seem weird or bizarre which they are but still, they show a diversity in sports culture that we must appreciate and admire.
Let’s dive into some of these weird sports now.
Kambala Buffalo Race
Originated From: Karnataka
About the Sport
Kambala is a traditional buffalo race that takes place in the southwestern coastal region of Karnataka, India. It is a popular sport among the farming community, particularly in districts like Dakshina Kannada and Udupi. It is typically held in muddy fields, and it involves buffaloes and their handlers, known as “aragaaris.“
The event is deeply rooted in the local culture and is often organized to pay homage to the deities and seek their blessings for a good harvest. Kambala usually takes place between November and March, coinciding with the post-harvest season. (I already told you that these are based on people’s beliefs.)
In Kambala, buffaloes are made to run in pairs along a straight, paddy field track, while the aragaaris run alongside, guiding the animals with a plough. The buffaloes are often decorated with colorful accessories and are prepared for the race to showcase their strengths. The fastest pair of buffaloes is declared the winner.
It has been a part of the region’s cultural heritage for centuries, but it has also faced controversy and concerns about animal welfare. In recent years, there have been discussions regarding the treatment of buffaloes during the races, leading to debates about the ethics by Animal rights activists about the well-being of the buffaloes, and taking calls for regulations or modifications for animal safety.
Elephant Polo
Originated From: Meghauli, Nepal
About the Sport
Elephant polo is a sport that is a variant of traditional polo and is played while riding elephants instead of horses, duh. It is a niche sport that combines elements of polo with uniqueness by using elephants.
Teams and Rules: Elephant polo is typically played between two teams, each consisting of three players. The rules are similar to those of traditional polo, with teams attempting to score goals by hitting a ball through goalposts using long-handled mallets.
Elephant Handlers: Each elephant is accompanied by a mahout or handler who guides and controls the elephant during the game. The mahouts (a person who works with, rides, and tends an elephant), play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both players and elephants.
Tournaments and Events: Elephant polo is often played in exhibition matches or as part of special events and tournaments. These events are sometimes organized for charitable purposes, with funds raised going toward elephant conservation or other causes.
Location: Elephant polo events have been held in various locations around the world, but they are most commonly associated with countries like Thailand and Nepal. The sport has gained popularity as a unique and entertaining activity for tourists and spectators.
Like other sports involving animals, elephant polo has faced criticism from animal welfare activists. Concerns include the well-being of the elephants involved.
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Yubi Lakpi
Originated From: Manipur
About the Sport
— Continue Reading about more such sports —>
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If you enjoy reading it, comment below and leave your suggestions and any other topics that I should write about in the comments. Don’t just read alone share it with others in this way everybody will enjoy it. I will be back soon with another game or related info. Till then…
—DHANYAVAAD—
