After a four-year wait, Sooriyur village wore a festive look on Mattu Pongal day. on Monday, as everything was set for jallikattu, which commenced after the Collector inaugurated the event. As many as 447 bulls participated and 461 tamed them in the jallikattu in which 20 sustained minor injuries.

Bull tamers in action at Sooriyur, Tiruchy, on Monday

Thiruchirapalli:

With strict adherence to norms, out of 450 bulls registered, three were rejected after an inspection by a team of veterinary doctors. Similarly, 461 tamers were allowed while 22 were rejected as they failed the medical examination.

A large number of spectators from Tiruchy, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Sivagangai and Ariyalur thronged Sooriyur to witness the event.

There were continuous announcements regarding the court directive in taming the animals in the arena.

The organisers were particular about strict implementation of the norms and had erected barricades and had covered the arena with coconut pith. Most of the tamers were seen in colourful uniforms and Collector K Rajamani was insisting the organisers to ensure their safety.

According to S Ramaiyya, an organising committee member, “Our village did not conduct the event for four years following a court direction”.

The event was conducted till 3 pm and the winners were given gold coins, bicycles, household articles sponsored by various people, including MP P Kumar and Tiruverumbur MLA Mahesh Anbil Poyyamozhi.