The first Jallikattu event of the Pongal festival took place at Avaniyapuram in Madurai district on Thursday, drawing large crowds and enthusiastic participation. Around 1,000 bulls were registered for the event, while 550 bull tamers enrolled to take part. Of these, 937 bulls were released into the arena after mandatory medical checks.

Balakumar of Avaniyapuram emerged as the top bull tamer, successfully taming 22 bulls and winning the first prize, a car worth ₹8 lakh. C R Karthi, also from Avaniyapuram, secured the second position after taming 17 bulls. 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 and was awarded a tractor.

The event began at 7.30 am after veterinary teams examined both bulls and bull tamers. Twelve bull tamers were disqualified for reasons including alcohol consumption and failure to meet eligibility norms. Around 60 people, including bull tamers, sustained injuries during the event and were taken to Rajaji Government Hospital, with 11 shifted to other hospitals for further treatment.

Tamil Nadu Commercial Taxes and Registration Minister P Moorthi flagged off the event in the presence of Madurai District Collector Pravin Kumar, who administered the customary pledge for fair conduct. More than 2,000 police personnel were deployed for security. Jallikattu will continue at Palamedu on Friday, followed by the world-famous Alanganallur Jallikattu on January 17, to be flagged off by Chief Minister M K Stalin.