Jallikattu

Sallikattu (Tamil: சல்லிகட்டு) or Eruthazhuvuthal (Tamil: ஏருதழுவுதல்) is a bull taming sport played in Tamil Nadu as a part of Pongal celebration. This is one of the oldest living ancient sports seen in the modern era. Although it sounds similar to the Spanish running of the bulls, it is quite different. In Jallikattu, the bull is not killed and the 'matadors' are not supposed to use any weapon. It is held in the villages of Tamil Nadu as a part of the village festival. The festivals are held from January to July, every year. The one held in Alanganallur, near Madurai, is one of the more popular events.
Introduction
Jallikattu is based on the simple concept of "flight or fight or sometimes freeze". Cattle being herd and prey animals in general tend to run away from unwanted situations. But there are quite noteworthy exceptions. Cape buffalos are famous for standing up against lions and killing them. The Indian Gaur bull is known for standing its ground against predators and tigers think twice about attacking a full grown Gaur bull. Aurochs, the ancestor of domestic cattle was known for its pugnacious nature. The majority of Jallikattu bulls belong to the pulikulam breed of cattle. These cattle are reared in huge herds numbering in hundreds with a few cowherds tending to them. These cattle are for all practical comparisons, wild and only the cowherds can mingle with them without any fear of being attacked. It is from these herds that calves with good characteristics and body conformation are selected and reared to become Jallikattu bulls. These bulls attack not because they are irritated or agitated or frightened, but because that is their basic nature. Other breeds of cattle that are suitable for jallikattu are the palingu(or naatu) maadu, the umblachery and the malai maadu.
 History
Jallikattu, which is bull-baiting or bull fighting, is an ancient Tamilian tradition called Eruthazhuvuthal, popular amongst warriors during the Tamil classical period According to legend, in olden days the game was used by women to choose their husbands. Successful "matadors" were chosen as grooms.
The term Jallikattu comes from the term Salli Kaasu (coins) and Kattu (meaning a package) tied to the horns of the bulls as the prize money. Later days during the colonial period this term got changed to Jallikattu which is the term currently used. Usually the majestic Kangeyam bull is involved in this game, as they are naturally more ferocious and muscular than any other of its species. It is said that the Tamil people hold on to their tradition forever. It is interesting to note that there is a seal from the Indus Valley Civilization depicting the sport. It is currently preserved in the Delhi museum.