Over 50 tamers injured in first-ever jallikattu at Tirupur

Inaugurated by Minister for Animal Husbandry ‘Udumalai’ Radhakrishnan, the event was witnessed by thousands of people at the Alagumalai area. Bulls from several districts, including Madurai, Theni, Tiruchy, Sivaganga, Erode and Kangeyam took part in the event. Over 50 tamers suffered minor injuries while attempting to tame the bulls. However, there were no fatalities as all safety measures were in place to ensure no life was lost.  

As the sport was conducted for the first time in Tirupur, huge crowds from across the district, as well as Coimbatore, Erode, Dindigul and Madurai districts thronged the venue. As the crowd grew, spectators in the gallery were asked to leave every three hours so as to give an opportunity to others. Successful tamers were rewarded gold coins, silk sarees and cash.

Organisers said Vignesh from Madurai, who tamed 10 bulls, won the first place, while Bharat Kumar also from Madurai came second. The winners were given two-wheelers and other household items. Officials said all tamers and bulls were subjected to medical examination by a team of veterinarians. “It is really a proud moment for Tirupur district,” said S Manimaran, a student from Tirupur.