Tamil Nadu's Jallikattu: Thrills, Scars, and Unwavering Passion

The ancient Tamil tradition of jallikattu, a daring bullfight performed with bare hands, is kept alive annually at harvest festivals in India's Tamil Nadu state. Despite a history marked by numerous injuries and fatalities, the sport continues to captivate participants and spectators alike. Saravanan B, a 31-year-old construction worker, embodies the deep-rooted passion for this tradition, viewing it as a way of life and a source of immense personal pride.

Organizers vehemently deny allegations of animal cruelty, such as provoking bulls with alcohol or eye irritants. They insist that jallikattu is governed by strict rules and is an indispensable part of Tamil culture. Participants, like Saravanan, often reject these accusations, considering the bulls as friends and emphasizing their commitment to not harming the animals during the contests. The risks involved are seen as secondary to the profound sense of accomplishment and cultural connection.

While the prize money for jallikattu contests is modest, the glory and honor of participating and succeeding are invaluable to the fighters. Saravanan's dedication is so profound that it even influenced his personal life, with his fiancée approving of his involvement in the sport. This enduring passion highlights jallikattu's cultural significance and its ability to attract a dedicated following, even amidst ongoing controversies and safety concerns.