Madurai: On January 16, in a Jallikattu event at Avaniyapuram, around 60 people were hurt, with 20 suffering serious injuries, said a Senior District official.
The event coincides with the Pongal celebrations and is stated on the day of Mattu Pongal. It is a local bull-taming sport where a participant is supposed to grab the bull by the horns and tame it as it tries to shrug him off.
Jallikattu is a traditional method used by peasants to protect the indigenous, pure-bred bulls. Jallikattu is said to have originated during the Tamil Classical Era, which lasted from 400 to 100 BC.
Also known as ‘Eru Thazhuvuthal’ and ‘Mancuvirattu’, Jallikattu celebrations started in full swing in three villages of Tamil Nadu’s Madurai on January 15. Further Jallikattu events are scheduled to be held in Palamedu and Alanganallur on January 16 and January 17. Only 300 bull tamers and 150 spectators are allowed in a Jallikattu event.
Aneesh Sekhar, District Collector Madurai said “Yesterday, we had around 60 injured people, 20 were a little serious and were referred to Rajaji Hospital. 40 others with minor injuries were given first aid. There has been no casualty”.
However, he said that all arrangements were done to ensure the safety of participants as well as spectators.
Out of the 20 injured sent to Madurai’s Government Rajaji Hospital, 11 were still undergoing treatment there, as per a Revenue Department official.
Despite the incident, the ongoing Jallikattu event continued till 4 pm, yesterday, the official added.
Earlier, the Madurai District collector had said that, “We expect no injuries. If injuries happen, we want to ensure that they are given the best medical care. So, all arrangements are in place. We expect smooth conduct of Jallikattu”.
(with inputs from ANI)
