Siravayal majuvirattu in Sivaganga ends largely incident-free

More than 700 bulls were released during the renowned Siravayal manjuvirattu, held near Tiruppattur here on Saturday.

The traditional event, held annually on the third day of the Tamil month of Thai, commenced with special prayers at the Periyanayaki Amman and Thenatchi Amman temples. Following the rituals, villagers marched to the Thozhu (bull enclosure) accompanied by a display of fireworks and traditional percussion music.

In a show of respect, the bulls in the enclosure were draped with traditional veshtis and towels. Subsequently, bull tamers took an oath led by District Collector K. Porkodi, who officially flagged off the event.

Tamers trying to tame a bull at Siravayal manjuvirattu in Sivaganga on Saturday.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

As per tradition, the event began with the release of temple bulls, which remained untouched by participants. Following this, 217 registered bulls were released into the arena and 150 bull tamers competed in trying to subdue them.

Prizes, including gold and silver coins, large brass vessels, cots, bicycles, and cupboards, were awarded to successful tamers and the owners of bulls that remained uncaptured.

Additionally, more than 500 bulls from Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Pudukkottai, Tiruchi, Madurai, and Dindigul were released across the Siravayal and Kummangudi plains.

A total of 123 people, including tamers and a female spectator, sustained injuries from the charging bulls. They received initial treatment from a medical team stationed at the venue. However, more than 35 severely injured individuals were rushed to government hospitals in Karaikudi, Tiruppattur, and Sivaganga.

To ensure rapid assistance across the vast fields, 18 ambulances—including a specialised bike ambulance—were deployed.

The event was closely monitored by Superintendent of Police R. Shiva Prasad and Devakottai Sub-Collector Ayush Venkat Vats, among other officials. A security force of over 500 police personnel was deployed to maintain order throughout the festivities.