Jallikattu 2024: Known Date, Venue & Significance Behind Tamil Nadu Festival

Madurai Jallikattu 2024 Date: Integral to the Pongal harvest festival, Jallikattu is not just a competition but also a celebration of nature and an expression of gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

In Jallikattu, hundreds of men attempt to tame bulls set out from an entry point known as Vaadivasal

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Jallikattu is a crucial aspect of Tamil culture, dedicated to safeguarding indigenous bull breeds. The nationwide attention turned to Jallikattu during a large-scale protest at Marina Beach, Chennai, where people from Tamil Nadu rallied against the previous ban on this traditional sport in 2017. The annual Jallikattu festivities occur during the Pongal season, from January 15 to 17, emphasizing its deep-rooted significance in Tamil Nadu.

Jallikattu is especially popular in specific districts of Tamil Nadu—Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Theni, Pudukkottai and Dindigul. Integral to the Pongal harvest festival, Jallikattu is not just a competition but also a celebration of nature and an expression of gratitude for a bountiful harvest. Cattle worship plays a significant role in this festive tradition.

The Pongal harvest festival, which marks the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai, is a four-day festival with each day having its own significance. Observing Pongal involves adorning homes, cooking a fresh pot of Pongal (made of rice, jaggery and shall) and joyously sharing the festivities with family and friends.

Jallikattu: Date & Venue 

On January 15, events are scheduled to take place in Avaniyapuram, and on January 16, jallikattu are set to happen in Palamedu. Additionally, a jallikattu is scheduled in Alanganallur on January 17. It has been informed that an announcement will be made soon by the concerned department regarding the registration of cowherds and bulls.

In Jallikattu, hundreds of men attempt to tame bulls set out from an entry point known as Vaadivasal. The players hold on to the horns or hump of the bulls left out in the crown and the player who holds on to the cattle for a long time is announced as the winner. Those who tame the most number of bulls are also awarded prizes and gifts.

Jallikattu is also known as Yeruthazhuvuthal, Madu Pidithal and Pollerudhu Pidithal.