Mangaluru: Dooja, the legendary Kambala buffalo that has won an incredible 69 medals, has retired from racing due to health concerns. Though currently in stable condition, his owners have decided not to bring him back to the Kambala track.
Kambala, the traditional buffalo race of Karnataka’s coastal region, holds great significance for buffalo owners, who treat their racing buffaloes as family. In return, these animals bring prestige and pride to their owners through their victories. Dooja, a name synonymous with dominance in Kambala, has now stepped away from the sport due to health challenges.
For years, hearing the call "Ale Budiyerige…!" at the Kambala track meant Dooja was about to race—and victory was almost certain. However, over the past two years, he has been struggling with health issues. Despite recovering from treatment, his racing days are over, leaving Kambala enthusiasts disappointed.
Buffaloes in good health can typically race in Kambala until the age of 20. However, Dooja suffered a severe illness two years ago, leaving him so weak that he could barely stand. Though he has regained his health, he is no longer fit to race, marking the end of an extraordinary career.
Dooja was originally purchased from Aladangady Ravi by the Padavu-Kanakada team of Shaktinagar, Mangaluru. He was just a two-year-old calf when he arrived at his new home and is now 16 years old. Under their care, he was trained and became a racing sensation. The buffalo raced under the name of Francis Flavy D’Souza until the owner's death, after which his three sons—Dolfi, Derrick, and Norbert D’Souza—continued the family tradition of racing under their mother’s name.
A Record-Breaking Career
Dooja's racing journey is nothing short of legendary. He first emerged as a champion in the Negilu Junior Category, later dominating the Hagga Junior division before claiming the Hagga Senior championship title for four consecutive years. He made history by securing 69 medals, an unparalleled feat in the sport.
From his debut race, where he reached the semifinals, Dooja raced alongside other top buffaloes like Appu, Channa, Bolla, and Mode, earning a reputation as one of the finest competitors in Kambala history.
A Buffalo Who Loved Music
One of Dooja’s most unique traits was his love for music. His caretakers recall that whenever he reached the semifinals, he would nod his head to the beats of the band and traditional Kombu (horn) sounds. If he won a medal or the championship, he would even dance with joy—a sight cherished by his caretakers and spectators alike.
Pritam, a member of the Padavu-Kanakada team, confirmed Dooja’s retirement, stating, "He no longer has the strength to race. We bought him from Ravi in 2010, and he has been paired with multiple buffaloes in Kambala. He won his first medal at the Kakkepadavu Kambala, and from there, he never looked back. Over six years, he became a champion and secured 69 medals."
Another team member, Josuwa, praised Dooja’s temperament, saying, "He was always calm, but the moment he stepped onto the track, his excitement was unmatched. During semifinals, he enjoyed the music, especially when the band and horn played. Even if another buffalo was ahead during the race, he would always surge forward at the finish line."
Longtime caretaker Stanny Mendonsa, who looked after Dooja for 11 years, described him as "a gentle and loving companion, just like a child. He never caused trouble for anyone."
With his retirement, Dooja leaves behind a legacy unmatched in Kambala history. His remarkable journey, unwavering spirit, and love for music have cemented his place as one of the greatest buffalo racers ever.
