Sun Jan 18 17:08:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Illegal Manjuvirattu Events in Tamil Nadu Claim Five Lives in One Day
The Story
On Saturday, January 18, 2026, five people were killed in separate incidents during illegal manjuvirattu (bull-taming) and bull race events held in the Salem, Krishnagiri and Vellore districts of Tamil Nadu, India. The events, conducted without necessary permissions, resulted in spectators and participants being fatally gored or injured by bulls. The incidents highlight the continued practice of these dangerous sports despite safety concerns and legal restrictions.
Key Points
- Three people died in illegal manjuvirattu events in Salem and Krishnagiri districts on Saturday, January 18, 2026.
- M. Kasi, 65, was killed in Keeripatti near Attur, Salem district.
- Rajkumar, 57, died after being gored in Pukkampatti near Mecheri.
- R. Elavarasan, 39, was killed in Kaveripattinam, Krishnagiri district.
- Two people were killed in illegal manjuvirattu events held at Kondaiyampalli and Sentharapatti in Salem district, on Saturday afternoon.
- K. Thilakara, 65, a wage labourer, died after being injured by a charging bull during a bull race in Govinda Reddy Palayam village, Vellore on Sunday.
Key Takeaways
- Illegal manjuvirattu events continue to be a problem in Tamil Nadu, leading to preventable deaths.
- Lack of enforcement of regulations surrounding these events contributes to the ongoing danger.
- Spectators and participants are at significant risk due to the inherent dangers of the sport and the absence of safety measures.
- The persistence of these illegal events suggests a need for increased community awareness and alternative forms of entertainment.
First Piper 