In preparation for the upcoming jallikattu for Pongal festival, health screening for jallikattu bulls officially commenced in Madurai from January 1 .
Veterinary teams are conducting rigorous physical examinations to certify that each animal is fit for the high-energy events. The assessment would represent the final hurdle for bull owners, who have spent months meticulously grooming and training their bulls specifically for these world-renowned competitions.
As the Avaniyapuram jallikattu event is scheduled first on January 15, the bull examination to assess their physical condition is on a full swing at the Avaniyapuram Government Veterinary Dispensary.
M. Babu, veterinary assistant surgeon, said they would be primarily checking the bull for age, height, variety, strength and vaccine certificates.
“The eligibility certificate would be given only if the bull was of an indigenous origin. Foreign breeds would be rejected,” he said.
