Avaniyapuram Jallikattu: Madurai prepares for pongal bull-taming event

Preparations are underway in full swing for the iconic Avaniyapuram Jallikattu in Madurai, scheduled to be held on January 15, coinciding with Thai Pongal. Despite continuous rainfall in the region, officials say the arrangements are progressing swiftly.

The Avaniyapuram event will be the first in the series of Jallikattu competitions held during the Pongal festival in Madurai district. Palamedu will host its Jallikattu on Mattu Pongal, followed by Alanganallur on Uzhavar Thirunal.

Authorities have said that the Avaniyapuram Jallikattu will be conducted in strict compliance with government guidelines. With the event just days away, preparatory work is being carried out at an accelerated pace.

The Madurai Corporation has allocated ₹64 lakh for the arrangements. As part of the safety measures, about 720 tonnes of casuarina poles and 400 bundles of coir rope have been deployed to construct barricades. Eight-foot-high barricades have been erected along both sides of the road from Peravadi to the Vaadi Vaasal and the bull holding area to manage crowds and ensure smooth conduct of the event.