The Jallikattu event at Avaniapuram in Madurai commenced the Pongal festival on January 14, 2025, but tragically concluded with the death of a bull tamer.
Out of 620 bull tamers who participated in the event, 75 sustained injuries during 11 rounds. Among those injured, 30 experienced serious injuries while 45 had minor injuries.
B. Naveen Kumar, a 22-year-old bull tamer, succumbed to his injuries at the Government Rajaji Hospital in the city. Eleven other participants were referred for additional medical care.
From a total of 736 bulls, only five reported minor injuries, according to the organizers.
List of Winners
Karthik emerged as the top tamer, successfully managing to tame 19 bulls, earning him a car, a cow, and a calf as prizes. The second place went to Divakar, who tamed 15 bulls and received a bike. Malaiyandi, whose bull remained in the arena for 60 seconds, won a tractor along with a cow and calf. G.R. Karthik secured the second prize for having his bull in the arena for 47 seconds, earning him a bike.
Tamil Nadu Ministers P. Moorthy and P.T.R. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan presented the prizes during the event, which was also attended by local officials including Madurai District Collector M.S. Sangeetha and Madurai City Police Commissioner J. Loganathan.
Event Safety Measures
Extensive safety measures were implemented, with police personnel deployed throughout the venue. Volunteers from the Indian Red Cross Society were on hand to assist injured participants, and officials from the Animal Husbandry Department monitored the bulls.
Ambulances, fire engines, and a mobile X-ray unit were stationed on-site for immediate care. A team of 16 general physicians and nine specialists from local hospitals were also present. Despite the injuries, a senior police officer reported that the event concluded without major incidents.
The Jallikattu festivities will continue with another event in Palamedu on January 15, 2025, followed by the renowned Alanganallur Jallikattu on January 16.
