Amidst the vibrant Pongal festivities, the exhilarating tradition of Jallikattu, a revered bull-taming sport, commenced in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Embraced as a cultural spectacle in Tamil Nadu, the Jallikattu event in Madurai is set to unfold over three days starting January 15.

MS Sangeetha, the Madurai District Collector, detailed the schedule, confirming the sequence of Jallikattu events. Avaniyapuram will host the event on the first day, followed by Palamedu on the second, and Alanganallur on the third day.

Preparations are in full swing, with bull training sessions underway at Avaniyapuram preceding the event. A bull owner, Rajkumar, expressed enthusiasm, sharing, "Our lineage has raised Jallikattu bulls for seven generations. Our prized bull will grace all Jallikattu districts, having claimed victory in numerous competitions. We've been rigorously preparing with walking and swimming training in anticipation of the upcoming event," the District Collector  said.

The centuries-old tradition involves releasing a bull into a throng of participants aiming to seize the bull's hump, showcasing courage and skill. Despite concerns raised by animal rights organizations regarding safety risks for both participants and bulls, the Supreme Court upheld Tamil Nadu's law in 2023, allowing the continuation of Jallikattu after prolonged protests against its ban. Advocates of the tradition argue for its cultural significance and refute claims of cruelty towards the animals.

Meanwhile, the Jallikattu season commenced earlier in Thachankurichi village, Pudukkottai district, on January 5, witnessing the spirited participation of 500 bulls.

Notably, Sri Lanka is set to host its inaugural Jallikattu event in Trincomalee amid a week-long Pongal celebration starting January 6. The event, taking place at the Sampur grounds, anticipates the involvement of over 200 bulls and a hundred adept bull tamers.

Governor Senthil Thonadaman of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province spearheads the event, tracing its roots to Tamil Nadu's Sivagangai district. Addressing the festivity, Thondaman remarked, "Pongal holds a special place in the hearts of the Tamil community worldwide. Jallikattu and Mattu Pongal remain integral parts of this celebration. Commencing the festival with 1008 Pongal pots and 1500 Bharatnatyam dancers is a significant tradition."

He further elaborated on the diverse activities planned, stating, "We have a rich lineup of events encompassing Jallikattu, Rekla races, silambam fights, boat races, and beach kabaddi, fostering our proud cultural heritage. We anticipate a participation of around 200 bulls and 100 bull tamers." 

The fervor surrounding the Jallikattu festival, steeped in tradition and heritage, continues to captivate enthusiasts across borders, underscoring its enduring significance in both Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

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