Jallikattu

Jallikattu — The Traditional and Cultural Identity of Tamil Nadu 

https://ahd.tn.gov.in/jallikattu/

Cultural Significance and Historical Background

Jallikattu is a traditional event of the rural people of Tamil Nadu particularly in southern part of the State. It has a 5,000-year-old tradition and a history associated with the socio-cultural ethos of Tamil Nadu. It represents the bond between humans and animals, the bravery of Tamil youth and the agrarian way of Tamil life. The bulls used for the event are the native breeds of the area; thereby the event also ensures that the native breeds are preserved.

Association with Pongal Festival

• Jallikattu is mainly associated with the annual Pongal festival, which is a major harvest celebration in Tamil Nadu.
• The event is particularly linked with Mattu Pongal day, a day dedicated to honoring and worshipping cattle.
• Other traditional variants are also celebrated: Manjuvirattu / Vadamadu / EruduVidumVizha.

Legal Framework

• In response to public protests, the Tamil Nadu Government enacted an ordinance in 2017 allowing the continuation of Jallikattu.
• This became the Jallikattu Act, 2017, receiving Presidential assent.
• The Supreme Court of India upheld the validity of the Jallikattu Act.

Regulatory Framework

• Each event is governed by the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of Jallikattu) Rules, 2017.
• Events are conducted from January to May every year only in places notified in the State Gazette.
• An average of 350 events of Jallikattu/Manjuvirattu/Vadamadu/EruduVidumVizha are notified every year since 2017.

Digitalization

From 2024, the entire process from submission of applications to the issue of Government Order is enabled through the web portal: www.jallikattu.tn.gov.in

• 214 events were conducted from January to May 2024.
• 182 events have been conducted from January 2025 to date.

Infrastructure

Kalaignar Centenary Eru Thazuvuthal Arangam has been constructed in Keezhakarai in Madurai district to conduct Jallikattu events (operational since January 2024).