Millions at stake in rooster fight during festival ritual in southern India
A high-stakes rooster fighting event in the Venkatramaiah rooster fighting ring created a massive buzz, with a record-breaking bet of Rs 1.25 crore (USD 144547.88) during the festival.
The incident took place in Thadepalligudem town in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh on January 14.
The visual shows two cocks fighting fiercely under the watchful supervision of their owners. The cockfighting ring is packed with thousands of spectators eagerly watching the intense match. The crowd enjoys the event, and the winning side celebrates with enthusiasm.
According to reports, organizers scheduled the bet of Rs 1 crore based on the traditional kukkuta shaastra. Two well-known roosters, Nemali Punju, owned by Gudivada Prabhakar Rao, and Rasangi Punju, owned by Rattayya Rasangi, were placed in the ring for the epic face-off.
The organizers, who facilitated the event with meticulous planning, witnessed an overwhelming turnout as people gathered in large numbers to witness the intense fight. Bettors eagerly placed substantial wagers, further intensifying the excitement.
After a fierce and thrilling contest, Nemali Punju, owned by Gudivada Prabhakar Rao, emerged victorious, claiming the prize money of Rs 1.25 crore. The electrifying event concluded with celebrations for the winning side, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The high-stakes match has reignited conversations about the cultural and legal implications of cockfighting in Andhra Pradesh.