TIRUPATI: Youths took part in Jallikattu in massive numbers at Anupalli under Ramachandrapuram mandal in Chittoor district on the occasion of Bhogi on Sunday.
The festival is to begin from the day of Kanuma, but the organisers this year has started Jallikattu from Bhogi itself. More than 6,000 youths have reached Anupalli to play and witness the deadly sport.
While more than 20 youngsters got injuries, while four of them got head injuries. The organisers shifted the injured to a local hospital. Villagers said that this is first time they are witnessing such a huge turnout.
The police warned them just a day before, but the organisers did not heed. Interestingly, no police was found nearby to stop the deadly game.
K. Prathapudu a participant said, “This is not Jallikattu, but this is the game of happiness. We are not bothered about the injuries. Many of my friends and relative have come from cities of Hyderabad and Bengaluru just to witness the adventurous game. This is a part of happiness in the festival.”
An organiser on condition of anonymity said, “The police and the government should notice this as a part of the culture. There is no point in stopping the game, even if we receive serious warnings from them. The event will be continued in the district for next two months also.”
