A bull getting trained to participate in the annual Jallikattu sport held during the Pongal festival at Iyer Bungalow in Madurai. Photo: S.James
Jallikattu, the traditional bull-taming sport of Tamil Nadu associated with Pongal festivities, evokes passionate support from the rural folk and spirited opposition from animal-activists. Photo: S.James
As part of the training exercise to participate in Jallikattu, this bull is given practice to swim as it strengthens its skill to attack the tamer with its hind legs. Photo: S.James
A bull practising its swim at Kovilpappakudi near Madurai. The bulls follow a strict regimen for a year and are engaged in rigorous training to build their stamina, which includes running and swimming sessions. Photo: S.James
A mock bull taming exercise being tried by the a bull fighter ahead of Jallikattu at Palamedu in Madurai. This mock exercise helps the fighters hone their taming skills and overcome any fear of the bull. Photo: S.James
The Jallikattu bulls are fed a special diet - a mix containing wheat flour, corn flour and cotton seed - after their training sessions. Photo: S.James
After a rigorous training session, a Jallikattu bull is cooling off in a shed with a ceiling fan at Kovilpappakudi Panchayat. As the sport has been listed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, the bull-tamers have been asked to be extra careful as any minor violation may lead to permanent ban on the sport. Photo:S. James
Madurai District Collector U.Sagayam inspecting the location for the proposed Jallikattu in Alanganallur near Madurai. The Collector, who is keen on conducting the sport, said that If there was a problem, the government is determined to face it legally in the Supreme Court. Photo: S.James
The Vadi Vasal (Entry Point) at Palamedu village near Madurai. The bulls are made to run down the lane from the Vadi Vasal to test the taming skills of the bull fighters. Photo: S.James
Villagers taking out a rally in Madurai on January 02, 2012 demanding a relaxation of the Government order on conducting Jallikattu There have been a lot of protests against the sport as the Animal Welfare Board of India has voiced its strong opinion against animal cruelty in the guise of rekela (bullock cart) race, oxen race, Jallikattu or any other form of entertainment involving bulls. Photo: S.James
PETA activists demand a ban on using bulls as ‘performing animals' in Jallikattu at Elliots Beach in Chennai. Photo: M. Karunakaran
While taming the raging bulls is seen as a symbol of masculinity, untamed bulls are their owners pride. This adventurous sport also has a history of claiming lives and severely injuring many. Photo: S.James
While there are divergent views on safety, animal protection and rural heritage, the Vadi Vasal at Alanganallur village gears up to welcome visitors to witness the "world famous" Jallikattu this year. Photo: S.James
Published - January 10, 2012 02:24 pm IST