In Sivaganga district, the traditional "Manju Virattu" event has been taking place on the day after Pongal without any prior notice, with thousands of people gathering and hundreds of bulls being released as part of the celebration. This has been a long-standing tradition in the region.
The "Manju Virattu" event, which is considered the headquarters of the "Manju Virattu" tradition, has been held for over 400 years in the special arena designated for it. In the past, villagers used to offer pieces of cloth to the bulls, and the bull catchers who successfully grabbed these pieces were considered victorious. The bulls used to play around the arena for a long time, giving the bull catchers ample opportunity to catch them.
However, over time, this tradition has evolved. Now, following the guidelines set by the government, the event is conducted in a manner similar to Jallikattu, with prizes being given to the participants.
Currently, preparations for the Manju Virattu event in Sivaganga are in full swing. Arrangements have been made for the spectator gallery, safety barriers, bull-catching areas, feeding zones for the bulls, exit points, and veterinary inspection facilities. Additional barriers have been set up behind the bull-catching area for further safety.
Insurance companies that cover Jallikattu events are refusing to offer insurance for Manju Virattu, and there is a continuous demand for government intervention to ensure that insurance is provided for the event.
This year, only those bull catchers who have obtained insurance will be allowed to participate. All bulls that arrive at the venue within the designated time frame will be allowed to participate. The event is set to begin at 11:00 AM, following a ritualistic prayer to gods and ancestors.
