A devastating fire in Karkala has claimed the lives of two legendary Kambala buffaloes, Thonse and Appu, sparking grief across Karnataka's coastal racing community.
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Kambala Community Mourns as Fire Claims Lives of Star Buffaloes Thonse and Appu in Karkala
Karkala, Karnataka | May 31, 2025 In a heartbreaking tragedy that has sent shockwaves through Karnataka’s coastal belt, two of the region’s most celebrated Kambala racing buffaloes—Thonse and Appu—were killed in a fire that engulfed their shelter in the early hours of Friday.
The fire, believed to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit, broke out in a buffalo shed located in a remote farming village near Karkala. Despite swift efforts by villagers and fire services, the intense flames consumed the structure, leaving little chance for a rescue.
The two buffaloes were not ordinary animals—they were icons in the sport of Kambala, the traditional buffalo race native to coastal Karnataka. Their sudden and tragic death has left not only their owners devastated but the entire Kambala fraternity in collective mourning.
Kambala Shock: Prize-Winning Buffaloes Thonse and Appu Killed in Tragic Karkala Fire
A Frantic Morning Ends in Tragedy
The incident occurred around 3:00 AM. According to local sources, residents noticed smoke billowing from the shed and rushed to alert the buffalo owners and fire authorities. Though fire engines arrived promptly from Karkala town, the fire had already consumed much of the structure.
"We heard a loud cracking sound and rushed out to see the shed in flames," said Ravi Shetty, a neighbor who attempted to douse the flames with water and sand. "By the time we reached the buffaloes, the fire was uncontrollable."
Both Thonse and Appu were trapped inside the enclosure and died due to severe burns and smoke inhalation. A third buffalo, reportedly younger and less experienced in races, was rescued but remains under veterinary observation.
Legacy of Champions: Who Were Thonse and Appu?
Thonse and Appu were household names among Kambala enthusiasts, having won multiple gold medals in back-to-back seasons over the last five years. Owned by renowned trainer M. Harish Nayak, the buffaloes brought prestige, recognition, and joy to their owners and the community.
"Thonse had the heart of a warrior and Appu could sense the rhythm of the race like no other," Nayak said through tears. “This is more than a financial loss. We’ve lost part of our family, our legacy.”
The buffaloes had participated in major events from Moodbidri to Uppinangady, and were known for their unmatched synchronization and raw power. Their training regime, carefully crafted by Nayak’s family, was often cited in Kambala circles as the gold standard.
Outpouring of Grief and Support
The news of the fire quickly spread across Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. Kambala committees, local leaders, and sports enthusiasts have expressed shock and sorrow. Social media flooded with tributes, with hashtags like #RIPThonse and #AppuForever trending in regional circles.
The Kambala Samithi of Karnataka has called for an emergency meeting to discuss both condolences and future safety protocols for buffalo shelters. Discussions are underway to potentially institute an insurance program for racing buffaloes and fire safety audits in animal enclosures.
Veterinarian Dr. Shruthi D’Souza, who has worked closely with many racing animals, commented, “These animals are national treasures. We need better infrastructure and protection mechanisms for them. Tragedies like this are unacceptable in today’s age.”
Legal and Safety Concerns
Preliminary investigations by fire officials confirm the fire was likely caused by an overheated fuse box, with worn-out electrical wiring exacerbating the situation. The police have registered an accidental fire report, and a team from the Animal Welfare Board has been dispatched to review shelter standards.
Animal rights activists have demanded stricter enforcement of safety regulations for animal shelters, especially those housing high-value or athletic animals.
“We need to treat these animals not just as racers but as sentient beings deserving of safety and respect,” said Praveen Rao, regional coordinator of the Karnataka Animal Rights Federation.
The Road Ahead for Kambala
As the Kambala season prepares for its next set of events, the community now moves forward with heavy hearts. Organizers are expected to hold a tribute ceremony during the upcoming race in Puttur to honor Thonse and Appu.
“We will dedicate our next race to them,” said Sanjay Hegde, a senior member of the Udupi Kambala Committee. “Their spirit will continue to gallop in every splash of mud on the track.”
Conclusion
The loss of Thonse and Appu is not just a personal tragedy for one family, but a cultural wound for an entire region. These buffaloes were more than racers—they were symbols of heritage, pride, and athletic excellence in a centuries-old tradition.
Their legacy will not be extinguished by the fire that took them. It will live on in the hearts of those who race, cheer, and uphold the proud tradition of Kambala.
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