Jallikattu: All you need to know about this bull-taming sport

Jallikattu, also known as Eruthazhuvuthal, is one of the ancient sports played as part of Tamil harvest festival, Pongal, in major parts of Tamil Nadu. Here’s everything you need to know about this bull-taming sport where men display their masculinity and strength.

Jallikattu is one of the ancient sports played as part of Tamil harvest festival, Pongal, in major parts of Tamil Nadu. Credit: PTI Photo

In ancient literature, this sport was also called ‘Eruthazhuvuthal’ or ‘Manju virattu’. Credit: PTI Photo

The name Jallikattu comes from the word ‘jalli’ meaning coins and ‘kattu’ meaning tie, which means a bundle of coins tied to the bull’s horns. Credit: PTI Photo

This is one of the oldest living sports in India, and the robust sport is a test of grit with the bulls fiercely run past the men while the tamers attempted to get on to their humps to emerge victorious. Credit: Reuters Photo

Historical references indicate that the sport was popular among warriors during the Tamil classical period. Credit: Reuters Photo

Originated over 2000 years ago, this sport was earlier practiced to select a bridegroom; it was seen as a way to win a woman’s hand in marriage. Credit: AFP Photo

This sport is parallel to world famous Spanish bullfights. However, the animal is not harmed in this sport. Credit: PTI Photo

Now, the Jallikattu altered into a game where youth could prove their brave adventures. Credit: PTI Photo

The Jallikattu game is organized with great zeal in Madurai and in districts like Pudukottai, Tiruchirapalli and Thanjavur. Credit: PTI Photo