Elaborate Arrangements for Sankranthi Cockfight in Andhra
Hundreds of cockfighting arenas are being set up across coastal districts, with crores of rupees expected to change hands during the festival.
By : DC Correspondent
Update: 2026-01-11 03:25 GMT
Preparations for Sankranti cockfighting are in full swing across coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh. Large cockfighting arenas, locally known as barulu, are being set up across many districts with grand arrangements.
Areas such as Bhimavaram, Undi, Seesali, Akiveedu, Yalamanchili, Kalagampudi, Duggirala, Mirzapurm and Muramulla are witnessing massive activity. Traditionally limited to West Godavari, Eluru, Konaseema and Krishna districts, cockfighting events are now expanding to Kakinada, NTR, Bapatla, Prakasam, Nellore and Anakapalle districts. In some places, public representatives are directly involved in organising the events.
This year, the number of arenas has increased exponetially. In Godavari districts alone, around 450 arenas are being prepared, compared to 150–200 last year, according to a news report. Large arenas are spread over 5 to 10 acres, with separate parking areas. Real estate layouts, farms and gardens near highways are being converted into cockfighting venues.
To avoid injuries to roosters, organisers are using synthetic arenas. Big arenas can accommodate 4,000 to 5,000 spectators at a time. Entry is allowed only with special tokens, and food and refreshments are provided by organisers. Large LED screens, floodlights for night events, caravans and private security guards are also being arranged.
The events are attracting visitors from both Telugu states, as well as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. This has led to huge demand for hotel rooms in towns like Bhimavaram, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Tanuku and nearby areas. Hotel rooms are being rented for ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 for three days. In places without hotels, tents are being set up to accommodate visitors.
During the three days of Sankranti, crores of rupees are expected to change hands. Each arena may host 25 to 40 fights per day, with bets ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh per fight. High-value roosters, costing between ₹2 lakh and ₹4 lakh, including imported breeds, are being brought specially for these events.