Highly-controversial bull taming sport, kickstarts on the occasion of Pongal
by Ekta ChaubeyMarking the start of the Thai Pongal festivities, the first Jallikattu event kicked off under the vigilant supervision of the district administration-led ‘Jallikattu Organizing Committee.
The incident took place at the Jallikattu ground of Avaniyapuram-Thiruparankundram road of Madurai district near the Sri Pathirakaliamman Temple, Tamil Nadu southern India, on January 14 at 6:30 AM.
Visuals depict bull tamers eagerly waiting at the entry points (Vadivasal) as a bull charges out with full vigor to face the challengers. Additionally, one individual is seen being admitted to the hospital and receiving medical attention.
As per reports, the Jallikattu event showcases 1,100 bulls and 900 tamers. The renowned Avaniyapuram Jallikattu marks the start of the Thai Pongal festivities with its first major event on Pongal Day. The next Jallikattu is scheduled for January 15 in Palamedu, followed by the bull-taming competition in Alanganallur on January 16.
Strict measures are in place to ensure safety and fairness, including QR-coded entry passes for tamers and bulls to prevent impersonation. Participants undergo medical screenings, and tamers are checked for alcohol consumption. Top performers stand to win lucrative prizes, such as a Nissan car worth ₹8 lakh for the best tamer and a ₹11 lakh tractor for the best bull, along with other rewards like gold and silver coins and bicycles.
Over 2,000 police personnel, supported by bomb squads, metal detectors, and drone surveillance, are ensuring security. Public amenities such as temporary toilets, drinking water tanks, and LED screens for spectators have been arranged. Alcohol sales are prohibited in nearby areas, and traffic has been diverted for smooth movement.
Emergency services are on high alert, with veterinary teams, ambulances, and fire service vehicles stationed at the venue. Authorities are working diligently to uphold safety measures while maintaining the cultural essence of the event.
During the competition, Thiruparankundram Karthik, representing the Chief Minister, tamed 19 bulls to secure first place. Kunnathur Aravind Diwakar and Tippuvanam Muralitharan earned second and third places by taming 15 and 13 bulls, respectively. The tractor prize for the best bull was awarded to Malayandi from Ponnamaravathi.