Traditional bullfight 'Jallikattu' in Madurai

Palamedu (Tamil Nadu), Jan 16 (ANI): Thousands of people flocked Palamedu town in Madurai district here to watch the famous traditional bullfight or 'Jallikattu'.

Around 500 men participated in the event and tried to catch bulls. At least 50 players received minor injuries, while participating in this daring game.

The event, which saw locals and foreigners in full strength, was appreciated by one and all for the thrills and adventure it provided to the spectators.

Austin, a tourist from Australia said, "It is a very festive. Everybody was wrestling with bulls, everybody was walking around and watching everything that has happened, everybody was looking for enjoyment, it was very exciting."

'Jallikattu' dates back around hundreds of years, and is a major event in villages of south India. It is held as a thanksgiving ceremony for the animals that have helped in farm activities all year round.

The objective of Jallikattu is to wrest the bounty, which is held in a cloth bag tied between the horns of the bulls.

An agitated bull is let loose to run in an open space, and a number of people attempt to tame the animal by controlling its horns with the victor taking the prize money home.

The horns of the adorned bulls are made wet before the event and the animal is rubbed down with oil making it more difficult to hold onto.

To add to it, the bulls are drugged with steroids and sometimes made to drink alcohol in order to enrage them preparing for the event. (ANI)