DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurates Madurai’s popular ‘Alanganallur Jallikattu'”

On Wednesday, popular Tamil actors Arun Vijay and Soori, along with Tamil Nadu ministers, attended the inauguration in Alanganallur.

Officials said they are anticipating the participation of 1,200 bulls and 800 bull tamers in Wednesday’s event, with approximately 50 bull tamers in each round. Bull tamers, dressed in vibrant t-shirts, undergo thorough checks by district administration before entering the field. Those failing to meet the criteria set by authorities are barred from participating.

Strict regulations govern the event, allowing only one person to catch a bull at a time. District health officials, a first-aid centre, 108 ambulances, and members of the Indian Red Cross Society are also present to attend to injuries.

To prevent untoward incidents, the Madurai police have deployed nearly 4,000 personnel ahead of the events. Although official figures on the number of injuries are pending, local reports suggest eight people have been injured, with one sustaining severe injuries.

As per the latest updates, four rounds have concluded, and Abi Sitthar from Sivaganga has emerged as the top bull tamer, capturing 11 bulls. Balamurugan from Valayankulam secured the second position after catching seven bulls.

Winners will be honoured by the government with prizes such as gold coins, cash, furniture, and a variety of items. The bull tamer winning the most rounds receives a significant prize like a car or two-wheeler.

Elsewhere in the Madurai district, the event was held at Avaniyapuram on Monday and Palamedu on Tuesday.