The traditional Kambala of coastal Karnataka will never forget Nandalike Pando, one of the most celebrated buffaloes of the sport’s modern past. Pando, 26, had become a hero among Kambala supporters in years of brilliance (and many championships) and more than 200 medals.
Pando’s death has triggered a sea of grief among Kambala followers in coastal Karnataka and beyond. His popularity went well beyond the Kambala circuit, and his fans in India and abroad have come to admire him so much.
Nandalike Pando: A Kambala Favourite
Pando was owned by Nandalike Srikantha Bhat and became popularly known as Nandalike Pando. Over the years, his name was associated with the competitive buffalo-racing circuit of Tulunadu.
Pando was a strong competitor who could take it from the left and right side.
Pando won more than 200 medals and received numerous honours throughout his career. He was also a series-best individual in many Kambala seasons, and established himself as one of the best buffaloes in the sport.
Recognition Beyond the Kambala Track
Pando's popularity eventually extended beyond the Kambala venues of coastal Karnataka. At the end of his career, he was honored at a public event in Bengaluru in the presence of the Chief Minister and two former Chief Ministers.
The recognition showed the larger attention Pando had received and the growing public interest in Kambala and its celebrated competitors.
Famous Pando-Kutty Pair
Pando was also in a well-known partnership with another Kambala buffalo, Kutty. The Pando-Kutty combination was well known to fans of the sport and it was appreciated for its performance on the Kambala track.
The pair’s accomplishments added another chapter to Pando’s long sporting journey and cemented his status as one of the most celebrated buffaloes in contemporary Kambala.
Thousands Gather for Final Rites
The news of Pando's death came as a major emotional blow to his owners, caretakers, and the many people who had followed his career over the years. Thousands of fans were reported to have gathered for his final rites, a testament to the close bond he’d formed with the Kambala community.
Pando was more than a racing buffalo to many followers. He had been an important part of the cultural and sporting culture of Tulunadu for so long, competitive and successful in his career.
Kambala itself has deep roots in the farming communities of coastal Karnataka. The traditional buffalo race is closely connected with the region’s agricultural traditions and is generally held during the farming season. In the last few years, the sport has gained more and more attention outside coastal districts and Karnataka.
Hence, Kambala has such a long tradition that continues to this day
Pando’s death at 26 marks the end of a remarkable sporting journey. His more than 200 medals, season honours, memorable races and association with the famous Pando-Kutty pair have made him a part of Kambala’s memory.
The large crowd at his last rites also showed the affection and respect he had earned from fans. For the Kambala community in Tulunadu, Nandalike Pando’s name will be associated with a time of great competition and great buffalo racers.
His records, medals and years of performances will still be remembered by Kambala fans and his story is another important one to the story of one of coastal Karnataka's most distinctive traditional sports.
