Udhayanidhi Stalin Launches Alanganallur Jallikattu in Madurai
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Synopsis
Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated the Alanganallur Jallikattu in Madurai, marking the start of this thrilling event. The event saw high security due to recent incidents and showcased the age-old tradition of bull-taming as part of Pongal celebrations.
Key Takeaways
- Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated the event.
- Participants took an oath to begin the competition.
- Over 2,300 police personnel were deployed for security.
- Recent incidents raised safety concerns.
- Prizes included a tractor, a car, and cash awards.
Chennai, Jan 16 (NationPress) The renowned Alanganallur Jallikattu was officially inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin in Madurai on Thursday.
Alongside him were Tamil Nadu Minister for Commerce and Registration P. Moorthy and District Collector M.S. Sangeetha.
The bull-taming contestants, referred to as Maadu Pidi players, took their oath, signaling the commencement of this exhilarating event.
The competition kicked off with the release of temple bulls, followed by specially designated bulls brought in for the contest.
The previous day saw the Palamedu Jallikattu take place, but the final round was cut short due to rain at approximately 5:45 p.m., leading to an unexpected conclusion.
The Avaniyapuram, Palamedu, and Alanganallur Jallikattu festivals occur on consecutive days, starting from the Pongal day.
A substantial police presence was arranged for the Alanganallur Jallikattu, with Inspector General of Police (South Zone), Prem Anand Sinha, overseeing the preparations.
In total, 2,300 police personnel were deployed for security, with additional officers brought in from neighboring districts to assist local law enforcement. Five Deputy Commissioners of Police, along with the Commissioner, managed the arrangements.
This increased security was prompted by the attendance of Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. Notably, the Avaniyapuram Jallikattu on Pongal day (January 14) experienced a tragic incident, resulting in the death of a bull tamer, Naveen Kumar from Madurai, who succumbed to injuries after being kicked by a bull.
He was transported to the Madurai Government Medical College Hospital but unfortunately passed away. Furthermore, 75 participants were injured, several sustaining multiple fractures.
The bull that was awarded the title of best, owned by Malayandi, skillfully evaded numerous tamers and secured a tractor as the top prize.
Karthik, noted for taming 19 bulls, received a car as recognition for his outstanding skills. Ranjit Kumar from Avaniyapuram earned Rs 1 lakh in cash for bravely confronting a fierce bull.
Prizes were presented on behalf of Chief Minister M. K. Stalin (tractor) and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin (car).
Other competitors received motorcycles and various rewards. The police in Madurai mandated that only bull owners with valid tokens could participate.
Owners were required to show their tokens and Aadhaar cards for entry.
Jallikattu, a significant part of the Pongal celebrations, is an ancient bull-taming tradition that dates back to 400–100 BCE. The word 'Jallikattu' originates from jalli (silver and gold coins) and kattu (tied).
Also referred to as sallikkattu, this customary sport typically occurs on the third day of Pongal, known as Mattu Pongal.
During the event, a bull is set free into a crowd, and contestants attempt to subdue it by seizing its hump. Breeds such as Pulikulam and Kangayam are commonly utilized in this sport.
Victorious bulls command significant prices and are highly desired for breeding. In 2018, the Jallikattu Premier League was introduced by the Tamil Nadu Jallikattu Peravai and the Chennai Jallikattu Amaippu to promote the sport.
