Alanganallur Jallikattu begins amid grand celebrations in Madurai

Chennai, Jan 17
The world-famous Jallikattu competition commenced on Saturday at Alanganallur, near Madurai, as part of the traditional Mattu Pongal celebrations.

State Minister Murthy formally flagged off the event, watching the spectacle from the stage as tradition dictated that the Muniyandi Temple bull of Alanganallur be the first to enter the arena.

Thousands of spectators gathered at the iconic arena to witness one of Tamil Nadu’s most revered rural sports, celebrated for its cultural, historical, and agrarian significance.

As preparations for the Palamedu Jallikattu progressed simultaneously, authorities issued tokens to nearly 1,000 bulls and 600 bull tamers, ensuring strict regulation and safety compliance.

By early morning, 66 bulls had undergone veterinary examinations at Alanganallur, with officials confirming that all safety and welfare protocols were in place.

The competition features an impressive prize structure this year. The bull tamer who embraces the highest number of bulls and secures first place will be awarded a car worth ₹8 lakh, while the owner of the best-performing bull will receive a tractor valued at ₹9 lakh.

Additional prizes include a bull calf and a native cow for second-place bull owners, a motorcycle for the second-place tamer, and an electric scooter for the third-place winner.

The first prizes will be presented by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, underlining the state’s official recognition of the sport’s cultural value.

Beyond the top awards, special prizes — including gold coins, electric stoves, and household items — will be distributed in every round to successful bull tamers and to bulls that evade capture.

Jallikattu, believed to be over 2,000 years old, is deeply rooted in Tamil agrarian life and is traditionally held during Pongal to honour cattle, which are central to farming.

Apart from Alanganallur and Palamedu, other iconic venues such as Avaniyapuram have helped make Madurai the epicentre of the sport.

Over the years, Jallikattu has evolved with modern safety norms while retaining its ancient spirit, continuing to symbolise Tamil pride, bravery, and cultural identity.