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JALLIKATTU
JALLIKATTU WAS considered a heroic game of Tamilians and used to be an individual's game like the Matadors in Spain. Nowadays, it is played with an interest in the valuables tied to the bulls' neck. Sadly, the bull gets tortured in the melee and even the people watching the game sustain injuries. It is strange that the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has been turning a blind eye to this event.
There is enough material in Tamil literature to boast the heroic deeds of people who even fought with tigers in a bid to get its tooth for the sake of ladylove. If we want to show our heroism, the game should ideally be played individually within a well-protected arena. Or else it should be banned.
K.Venkataraman,
A-T-2, Poorkudam apartments
Bypass Road, Madurai-10.
***
TAMING OF the bull, rechristened as "Jallikattu" in local parlance, has been a time-honoured sport conducted with pomp and fanfare. It is a delightful event to watch when in the splendid amphitheatre youths descend to expose their courage and valour. The bulls are reared throughout the year for the purpose and even the youths who take part in the even prepare themselves with much excitement, building their stamina and strength, Winning the game is a matter of great pride as the youths who tame the animal are instantly recognised as heroes. It is an unforgettable moment for them. The sport should receive Government's encouragement and the winners should be provided jobs in the police department.
S.V.Vaikundam,
Plot 139, Swamy Vivekananda Nagar,
Madurai-625007.
***
DURING THE month of 'Thai' after a busy harvest season, villagers for their relaxation and entertainment arrange, Jallikattu, the adventure sport. Each year's winner - who successfully catches the bull - is remembered for a long time by villagers not only from his own place but neighbouring areas as well. These days however, picturisation of Jallikattu gets exaggerated on the silverscreen. The hero is shown to catch the bull by its horn in no time and in return is rewarded with jewels, land or an eligible bride.
The ground reality is quite different. The crowd which watches the progressing game is always at risk because it is held in small and unsafe playing ground. Awards for winners are nothing big whereas sponsorship of such events has scaled heights.
K.Venkat,
106, Vakkil New Street,
Madurai.
***
THERE ARE several misconceptions about present day 'Jallikattu'. It is neither an adventure sport as described in ancient Tamil literature nor a typical Spanish bullfight. The ancient Tamil sport is a test of man's valour and wisdom and is an even competition. The "Matador" in the Spanish bullfight knifes and kills the brute animal.
But now what is on offer in the name of Jallikattu to several curious onlookers including domestic and international tourists, is a frenzied crowd and suicidal squads of youths chasing angry bulls with sharp horns who are let free into narrow lanes. In a "no rules followed" game, only the threat of injuries and death looms large for participants and onlookers alike.
The bloody sport should be banned like the State Government has commendably taken the initiative to stop animal sacrifice in temples. As an alternative, the traditional game of "Kabaddi" can be held on 'Jallikattu'. It is a human encounter and the striker can perhaps wear a bull-mask as a reminder. Such a sport will not only be amusing but save many precious human lives and prevent cruelty to animals.
T.Vadamalaiappan,
4-3-29, "Shanmugapriya",
Rail Nagar,
Madurai-18.
***
JALLIKATTU IS a traditional rural sport. It is considered a game for warriors which originated with Tamil culture. The game was nurtured and patronised during erstwhile dynastic rules when young winners were richly rewarded and even marriages were fixed.
Now the game is kind of adulterated. The bulls are allegedly let into the fighting arena after being fed on some special food and even liquor which makes them ferocious. Their horns are also sharpened making their attacks very dangerous. In the name of tradition, one finds the animals are subjected to harassment and torture. Many pairs of hands keep punching and pounding the animal in order to make it angry and run. In the melee, many of these animals break their limbs, their tails are twisted for an easy catch and control.
Needless to say that humans do not escape the wrath of the bulls either. During Jallikattu, the Government Hospital is flooded with people inflicted with inuries of varying degrees. Many people even succumb to more serious injuries sustained during the game.
In the name of cruelty to animals and cruelty to breadwinner of the poor families, this game should be stopped. Sensible people and the Government should join hands to put an end to this practice.
R.Jawaher,
20, Sarojini Street,
Chinna Chokkikulam,
Madurai-2.
***
JALLIKATTU IS in vogue in Tamil Nadu for very many years. It was popular because, there were no other popular sports in existence then.
The purpose of Jallikattu was to give an opportunity to youths with muscle power to display their strength and skill in catching a bull let loose in the arena. But lately Jallikattu has become a show of fun rather than an ancient art which exhibits the power of mind and body. Nowadays, Jallikattus are not organised properly with adequate precautions. Several unfit and untalented people chase the bull, who in turn get frightened by the crowd and cheering and go berser. The uncontrolled game and ensuing chaos leads to injuries and even deaths. The Government should ban such a sport.
K.R.Rajendran,
42/1, Mahal 2nd Street,
Madurai-1.
***
EACH YEAR at the completion f Pongal, Thiruvalluvar day, Jallikattu is conducted at Alanganallur when bulls from various places are brought for a tough fight with youngsters who demonstrate their bravery by controlling them. Like every year, this year too the event is eagerly awaited. Even foreign tourists evince a great interest initiating the tourism department to arrange special tours for them. For common public, special buses are run from Periyar Bus stand to Alanganallur. Some time during the game, people sustain wounds and have to be rushed to hospitals. We should exercise caution while enjoying this popular event.
M.Muthuramalingam,
16-1-12, K.M.A.Kovil Street,
Koodal Nagar, Madurai-18.
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