Thu Jan 16 18:43:19 UTC 2025: **Madurai Jallikattu Ends in Tragedy; One Spectator Dies**
MADURAI, January 16, 2025 – The annual Alanganallur jallikattu bull-taming event in Madurai district concluded Thursday with a tragic incident. A 55-year-old spectator, P. Periyasamy, died after being gored by a bull near the bull collection point. Despite undergoing emergency tracheotomy, he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away at a government hospital.
The event, which saw approximately 1,000 bulls participate – a record for Alanganallur – was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. Organizers hailed the high number of participating bulls as a success, indicating near-total participation from registered animals.
Prizes were awarded to several winners. Abi Sithar won first place, taming 20 bulls and receiving a car, cow, and calf. Sridhar and Vignesh secured second and third place respectively. Prizes were also awarded for the best performing bulls.
Despite the excitement, the event also saw 65 injuries reported, 17 of which were serious enough to require referral to the Government Rajaji Hospital. Two individuals in critical condition were spectators, highlighting safety concerns, particularly around the bull collection point. Health officials stated that 33 tamers were rejected from participation after health checks. Authorities attributed the injuries among spectators to relatively light security at the collection point, allowing many locals to enter the restricted area. Several ministers and officials were present at the event.
First Piper 