Tamil Nadu CM announces government job for top Jallikattu bull-tamer at Alanganallur event
Madurai, January 17
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday announced that the person who tames the maximum number of bulls in the traditional Jallikattu competition will be offered a suitable government job in the Animal Husbandry Department.
Addressing the Jallikattu event in Alanganallur, "Madurai is a land where valour has flourished. Under the Dravidian administration, we have built the Kalaignar Centenary Library and the Kalaignar Centenary Jallikattu Arena in Madurai. This is a great achievement. In the traditional Jallikattu competition, the person who tames the most bulls will be offered a suitable government job in the Animal Husbandry Department," he said.
Stalin arrived at Alanganallur in Madurai district on Saturday to witness the traditional Jallikattu event, celebrated as part of the Mattu Pongal festivities.
Jallikattu is a centuries-old sport of Tamil Nadu, observed on the third day of Pongal. The name is derived from two Tamil words - Jalli (silver and gold coins) and Kattu (tied). During the event, a bull is released into a crowd, and participants attempt to tame it to retrieve the coins tied to its horns.
Participants in the sport try to hold onto the animal's hump to stop it. Sometimes, they run along with the bull. Pulikulam or Kangayam is the breed of bulls used for the sport. The bulls which win in the festival are in high demand in the market and fetch the highest price.
Ahead of the Chief Minister's arrival, extensive preparations were made at the venue to ensure the safety of both participants and bulls. Medical facilities, animal health checks, and security arrangements were put in place well before the main event.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the intent to promote tradition, I have concerns. Is a government job the right reward? What about the safety of participants? I hope the Animal Husbandry Department job is a proper, skilled position and not just a token gesture.
Proud to see our traditions being celebrated at the highest level! Mattu Pongal and Jallikattu are integral to our agrarian culture. This announcement will encourage youth in rural areas to connect with their roots. வாழ்க தமிழ்! 🐂
Interesting policy. As an outsider, I'm learning about this tradition. It seems like a unique way to blend cultural preservation with state employment schemes. The focus on animal health checks mentioned in the article is reassuring.
Good step, but what about jobs for educated youth? Many engineers and graduates are struggling. While tradition is important, skill-based government jobs should be the priority. This feels like a populist announcement before elections.
My brother participated last year! The bravery is unbelievable. This job offer will bring so much pride and economic stability to the winner's family. It also highlights the importance of native cattle breeds like Pulikulam. Well done TN government!
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