MADURAI: Jallikattu, the traditional bull-taming sport, kicked off today in the village of Avaniyapuram in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. This event marks the beginning of the Jallikattu season, a beloved tradition in Tamil Nadu typically held during the Pongal harvest festival in the second week of January.

Initially banned by the Supreme Court in 2014, Jallikattu made a comeback in 2017 when the Tamil Nadu government enacted an ordinance to permit the event, implementing specific regulations to ensure the safety of both participants and the bulls involved.

In a significant turn of events, after widespread protests against the ban, the Supreme Court of India, in May 2023, upheld the law passed by the Tamil Nadu government, allowing the continuation of the Jallikattu tradition in the state. A Constitution bench considered a series of petitions challenging the laws of both Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra regarding Jallikattu and bullock cart races.

During the hearings, the Tamil Nadu government argued that Jallikattu is not only a sporting event but also a cultural one, emphasizing that there is no cruelty involved towards the bulls participating in these competitions.

The resumption of Jallikattu has been warmly welcomed by the community, and the event in Avaniyapuram promises an exciting display of skill and tradition. As the bull-taming season unfolds, participants and spectators alike are eager to witness the vibrant celebration of Tamil culture and heritage.

Jallikattu, Traditional Bull Taming Festival, Kicks Off in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka

Madras High Court Approves Officials' Panel for Avaniyapuram Jallikattu"

Best Places to Visit During the Vibrant Pongal Festival, Tamil Nadu