Jallikattu returns to Coimbatore after a gap of 39 years

Organised jointly by Ohmkar Foundation and Coimbatore District Administration, the grand event was witnessed by over 20,000 spectators near Chettipalayam on the outskirts of the city. Apart from the local public, a large number of people from Kerala too turned up to see the event. 

With all security measures in place and stringent norms, the sport passed off with just 20 tamers suffering minor injuries. Minister for Municipal Administration SP Velumani, who inaugurated the event, said that it was possible to hold the sport in Coimbatore due to the efforts of the state government. The event started with the release of a bull from Karivaratha Perumal temple in Saravanampatty. 

Huge digital screens were placed in around three places for public to watch the sport. Many bulls, which ran to the collection point, unexpectedly returned charging furiously at the tamers triggering tense moments. 

Police intervened when fights broke out between tamers at the venue. Two tamers entered into fisticuffs over taming a single bull. They were immediately removed by the police. 

Officials said that all tamers and bulls were subjected to medical examination, besides ensuring the safety of tamers and spectators. Successful tamers were rewarded with gold coins, silk sarees and cash. The bull owned by Minister SP Velumani could not be tamed. The minister said, “As the court has ruled that the sport can be held only in places, where it was conducted before, it is being held in Coimbatore now. There is also evidence that the bull taming sport was held in Coimbatore as early as 1979. Since the response has been good, the event will be made regular from now on.” “Though I had seen Rekla races, a regular event held during the time of Pongal in Coimbatore, this is the first time; I am seeing jallikattu. I am really excited and wish to come next year too, if the event is held,” said S Biju Nair, a native of Kerala who works in a private firm in Coimbatore.