Jallikattu 2026 begins with roaring energy in Madurai as Stalin flags off iconic Pongal spectacle
Madurai: Tamil Nadu’s iconic Jallikattu festival roared to life in Madurai this week, attracting massive crowds and spirited participation as part of the Thai Pongal 2026 harvest festival celebrations.
The much-anticipated traditional bull-taming sport began at Avaniyapuram, where lively spectators gathered to witness the culturally rich and thrilling spectacle.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin graced the event, joining local dignitaries and sport participants in honouring the age-old tradition that forms a key highlight of Tamil Nadu’s festive calendar. His presence underscored the state government’s support for the sport, which draws enthusiasts from across the region.
Traditional rituals and poojas marked the dawn of the event as over 1,000 bulls and around 550 bull tamers registered and took part in this first of Madurai’s three major Jallikattu events this Pongal season. Heavy security, including more than 2,000 police personnel, and modern safety measures such as CCTV and drone surveillance were in place to ensure smooth conduct amid the high energy.
The festival’s fervour is expected to continue with subsequent events at Palamedu on Friday and the world-famous Alanganallur Jallikattu on Saturday, where Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is slated to preside over the final grand competition
The first Jallikattu event of the Pongal 2026 harvest festival season was held at Avaniyapuram in Madurai on Thursday amid vibrant festivities and tight security arrangements. Around 1,000 bulls and nearly 550 bull tamers had registered online, with 937 bulls cleared and released into the arena after mandatory veterinary checks conducted early in the morning.
Balakumar of Avaniyapuram emerged as the top bull tamer, successfully taming 22 bulls and winning the first prize—a car valued at ₹8 lakh. C R Karthi, also from Avaniyapuram, secured second place with 17 bulls, while Ranjith Kumar and Karthik from Tirupparankundram followed with 16 and 14 bulls respectively. The bull owned by the Virumandi Brothers was adjudged the best bull of the event and was awarded a tractor.
The event was flagged off at 7.30 am by Tamil Nadu Commercial Taxes and Registration Minister P Moorthi, in the presence of Madurai District Collector Pravin Kumar, who administered the customary pledge ensuring fair conduct. Twelve bull tamers were disqualified for violations including alcohol consumption and failure to meet eligibility norms.
About 60 people, including bull tamers, sustained injuries during the event and were admitted to Rajaji Government Hospital, with 11 referred to other hospitals for further treatment. More than 2,200 police personnel were deployed to manage crowds and maintain law and order.
Jallikattu festivities will continue at Palamedu on January 16, followed by the world-famous Alanganallur Jallikattu on January 17, which will be flagged off by Chief Minister M K Stalin.