Madurai, Tamil Nadu: The vibrant and age-old tradition of bull-taming, known as 'Palamedu Jallikattu,' kicked off with enthusiasm in the Palamedu village of Madurai on Tuesday. The spirited event, commencing at 7 am, saw the participation of 1,000 bulls and 700 tamers amid cheers from the gathered crowd.

The jallikattu competition at the Palamedu venue was officially inaugurated by State Minister for Commercial Taxes and Registration Pm Murthy and District Collector Sangeetha. Prior to the commencement, a medical examination adhering to Supreme Court guidelines was conducted for both bulls and tamers.

The festival atmosphere in Palamedu was palpable as thousands of spectators gathered to witness the thrilling spectacle. The jallikattu matches were scheduled to take place in hourly rounds until 5 pm, with an extensive security presence of 2,500 policemen. Surveillance efforts were heightened, utilizing CCTV cameras to prevent any untoward incidents, as confirmed by the police.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Palamedu Jallikattu festival continues for the second day in Madurai pic.twitter.com/mAirAukwb6

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The commencement of the jallikattu event saw the release of seven temple bulls, marking the beginning of the competition. In the initial round, 50 tamers entered the field, attempting to subdue the spirited bulls emerging from the entry gate, known as the 'Vadi vasal' or Bull tunnel.

An exciting incentive awaited the participants, as the best bull tamer selected in the competition would be awarded a brand new car, courtesy of the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Additionally, the second runner-up would receive a bike, while the runner-up bull would be honored with a cow and calf. Winners would also be presented with two-wheelers, gold coins, silver vessels, and other gifts.

Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming spectacle, is an annual highlight during the Pongal harvest festival. In Madurai, the event unfolds across three locations - Alanganallur, Avaniyapuram, and Palamedu. Avaniyapuram hosts the event on the first day, followed by Palamedu on the second day, and Alanganallur on the third day. The festivities, commencing on January 14, continue until January 17, concluding the Pongal celebrations.

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