The making of a Jallikattu bull

January marks the beginning of the Jallikattu season in Tamil Nadu, especially in and around Madurai. While villages get busy with bull rearers and tamers, the focus often shifts to the excitement of the event itself. However, before this spectacle begins, there is an important yet quieter process: selective breeding, careful rearing, and the sale of native bull calves to enthusiasts willing to invest years in training them for Jallikattu.

Thottiapatti is a quiet village in Madurai. Unlike Jallikattu areas, there are no barricades here, no cheering crowds, or loudspeakers. Instead, the air carries the rhythm of a rural economy built around native breeds.

A spacious open area enclosed by netting houses native bulls, cows, and their calves. These cattle belong to the Keda Maadu, also known as Kizhakathi Maadu, a native breed commonly found in the Madurai region and often reared for Jallikattu. The bulls are well-maintained, and the calves are sold to rearers who take pride in nurturing bulls that may one day participate in Jallikattu.

S Duraisamy, who is involved in this business, says, “Several people in Thottiapatti maintain herds of native breed cows and bulls. Unlike commercial dairy farms, milk production is not the priority here. The focus is on preserving strong native lines, particularly those known for endurance, agility, and alertness — qualities that are highly valued in Jallikattu bulls.”

“We have bulls of various ages, with the oldest being around 10 years old,” he explains. “Every morning at around 10, the animals are taken out for grazing, and there is a pond nearby for them to drink. During this time, the sheds are cleaned, and the cow dung is collected and sold, which generates additional income. Before sunset, the cattle return to the enclosure. The calves are allowed to feed, and we also provide hay and grains before the animals settle down for the night,” he adds.

He mentions that the cattle are primarily cared for by women from the village and that outsiders are rarely permitted into the enclosure. “These are native breeds and need to be handled with care,” he states, emphasising that they are strong animals.

A Indra runs this business with her son and represents a group of women in the village who play a vital role in raising native breeds. After her husband’s death, she continued this business that has been passed down for generations.

“These are not just cattle; we care for them every day, and they recognise us. They do not allow others to come near, which the bond and shows the trust we have built,” she says.

“We provide medications according to the veterinarian’s advice,” she says. Indra balances her household responsibilities with the demands of her work with the cattle.

Duraisamy explains that individuals from various districts, including politicians, visit the village to buy bull calves. He notes that calves around three months old are preferred because they enable the rearers to develop a stronger bond with the animals.

He adds, “The age and health of the cattle are typically assessed by examining their teeth. Strong teeth are considered a sign of good health.”

“On average, more than 10 people visit the village each month to purchase bull calves,” he says. “Prices vary depending on the age of the calf, with younger calves, just a few months old, priced at around ₹15,000.”

“The ideal age for a bull to enter the vadivaasal is around three years,” he explains. “Among the Keda Maadu breed, the three-year-olds are particularly strong, energetic, and full of spirit.”

“Like the bulls, the native breed cows are also strong and energetic. Locally, these cows are called kidari maadu,” says Indra. “When they grow old or pass away, they are respectfully buried.”

“Buying and rearing bulls is a matter of pride in Madurai,” says Indra, watching the animals move across the enclosure. “No matter how many generations come, it is important that the youngsters continue to nurture and preserve this traditional Jallikattu event.”

In villages such as Thottiapatti, the story of Jallikattu starts long before the bulls arrive at the vadivaasal. For the rearers, these animals represent more than just livestock; they embody pride and heritage. It reminds us that the legacy of Jallikattu depends not only on the excitement of the arena but also on the dedication of the caretakers.