Tamil Nadu's First Jallikattu 2025 Begins In Pudukkottai District Today

Known for its tradition of hosting the highest number of Jallikattu events in TN, Pudukkottai district has received the necessary permissions from Tamil Nadu government to organise the event.

Pudukkottai district is renowned for its vibrant Jallikattu culture, with the highest number of vadivasal (bull entry points) in Tamil Nadu.

Source : PTI

The first Jallikattu event of this year in Tamil Nadu started at Thachankurichi village in Pudukkottai district on Saturday. Known for its rich tradition of hosting the highest number of Jallikattu events in the state, Pudukkottai district has received the necessary permissions from the Tamil Nadu government to organise the event.

Over 600 bulls from districts including Trichy, Dindigul, Manapparai, Pudukkottai, and Sivagangai are participating in the event. Additionally, more than 350 bull-taming participants have been medically examined and issued identity cards to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

The event will see 30 participants in each round attempting to tame the bulls, keeping the spirit of the traditional sport alive. Jallikattu, a hallmark of Tamil Nadu’s Pongal festivities, involves releasing bulls into a crowd of participants who try to grab the hump on the bull's back to bring it to a stop.

Pudukkottai: A Hub for Jallikattu

Pudukkottai district is renowned for its vibrant Jallikattu culture, with the highest number of vadivasal (bull entry points) in Tamil Nadu. From January to May 31, the district typically hosts over 120 Jallikattu events, 30+ bullock cart races, and 50+ vadamadu (tethered bull) events, showcasing the region's deep connection to the tradition.

Jallikattu is a significant part of the Pongal festival, which is a harvest celebration held in January. The event has deep cultural and historical roots, dating back to the Tamil classical period (400–100 BCE). Jallikattu symbolises bravery and the relationship between humans and animals in agrarian Tamil society.

Popular in districts like Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Pudukkottai, and Theni, where the sport is an integral part of local traditions. The term "Jallikattu" comes from "salli" (coins) and "kattu" (tied), referring to a prize tied to the bull's horns.

However, animal welfare groups have argued that Jallikattu involves cruelty to bulls, such as provoking them for aggressive behavior.