Jallikattu – a key event of Pongal celebrations

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A test of grit was on full display as bulls and men tried to get the better of each other during the bull taming sport ‘Jallikattu’.

The animals are let out one after the other from ‘Vadivasal,’ a narrow entrance to the sporting arena after announcements on the bull, like who owned it and so on.

Organisers repeatedly direct enthusiastic tamers through the public address system to ensure that only one of them took on the bull and advised them on ‘don’ts’ like avoiding touching the horns of the animals.

Elaborate preparations precede the event, which coincides with ‘Mattu’ Pongal celebrations to honour cattle that help farming.