Udupi: Rocket Moda, the renowned buffalo which carved a niche of its own by being the uncrowned king for the past 15 years in Kambala, the famous Janapada sport of Tulunadu, died on the morning of Tuesday, November 20. Rocket Moda had huge fan following for his unique style and speed of running in the Kambala sport.

Rocket Moda, who was 20-years-old and the darling of his mentor Srikant Bhat, who has given exemplary contribution towards the modern Kambala sport, died of age-related ailments. Rocket Moda, who is a Pairu breed buffalo of Udupi, Kota origin, created an unbeatable record in 2014 by completing the 144 meter distance in just 13.57 seconds, along with his partner Kutty.

Rocket Moda had bagged more than 100 medals in the Kambala, which is by far the highest in the history of the sport.

It was really heart-wrenching to see the tears flowing from the eyes of Kutty and Chenna, the loving companions of Rocket Moda, who was lying motionless in the shed meant for all the three buffaloes. Scores of Kambala fans, owners of various buffaloes and villagers rushed to the house of Srikant Bhat on hearing the news of Rocket’s death and paid their last respects to the hero who ruled the field of Kambala for the past one and a half decade.

Rocket Moda was buried with all the traditional rituals. Around 500 to 600 people took part in the final rites of Rocket Moda.