The much-anticipated Alanganallur Jallikattu — one of Tamil Nadu’s most iconic traditional bull-taming sports — kicked off today amidst great enthusiasm and festive spirit. Minister P. Moorthi officially inaugurated the event on the morning of January 17, with participants and bulls lining up to take part in the first round of competition. Over 1,000 bulls and scores of bull tamers have been registered to compete in this year’s event, which draws large crowds from across the state and beyond.
The competition began with the release of Alanganallur Muniyandi Temple bull through the main gateway, known as vaadivasal, marking the traditional start of the contest. Bulls and participating tamers were admitted into the arena only after thorough safety and eligibility checks by officials.
Participants were seen entering the field dressed in distinctive yellow attire, ready to showcase their courage and skill. As in previous years, prizes include a car for the best tamer and a tractor for the owner of the top-performing bull, adding extra excitement and competition to the event.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is also expected to visit the event later today