MADURAI: A 22-year-old bull tamer was gored to death at a jallikattu event in Madurai’s Avaniyapuram on Pongal, which began in high spirits but ended with 75 people injured – 30 of them severely – on Tuesday, said officials.
Tamer Naveen Kumar suffered severe injuries to his chest after being gored by a bull. He was rushed to Govt Rajaji Hospital where he was declared dead, said officials. Kumar’s kin refused to receive his body Wednesday and protested in demand of Rs 10 lakh compensation as well as a govt job for a family member. CM M K Stalin mourned Kumar’s death and declared Rs 3 lakh compensation for his family from the CM’s public relief fund.
At the Palamedu jallikattu Wednesday, thousands were in raptures as the traditional sport unfolded on the arena in all its glory. As many as 930 bulls were released in 10 rounds out of more than 1,000 bulls being given tokens. Women bull owners caught the eye of the audience as the bulls charged, responding to their calls with some tasting victory as well.
A total of 51 cases of injuries were reported among bull tamers, owners and spectators, seven of them major injuries. The event was flagged off at 7.45am by commercial taxes minister P Moorthy after the oath was administered to participants.