Are Bulls Really Tortured in Jallikattu?

Watch the above video and decide for yourself.
I am waiting for the Jallikattu lovers here to justify the sport.

Hailing from Kerala but Brought up in Tamil Nadu, I Will Answer This!

Apart from addressing the cultural, bull extinction, A2 milk, and corporate conspiracy theories, I will provide a practical answer based on common questions directed at me. If you are expecting an objective answer, then yes, the answer is yes, bulls are tortured during Jallikattu! However, drilling down further, it is not accurate to say that the entire sport is unethical. While some individuals may conduct the sport inappropriately, this does not reflect the true essence of Jallikattu. After stringent regulations, the sport has been conducted without any torture to animals.

Regulations in Jallikattu

According to the regulations:

The bull is tested before and after the run. The tests include alcohol, lemon in the eyes, and chilli powder in the genitals. The players will also be tested for alcohol, weapons, etc. Only uniformed personnel are allowed to embrace the bulls. Only one person holds the bull at a time.

These regulations indicate a level of care and respect for the bulls. However, the traditional methods of encouraging the bull to proceed to the entry point can be physical and painful. Let's explore these in more detail.

Behavioral Pattern of a Bull

The behavioral pattern of a bull is such that it responds to an adverse situation by putting up a fight. When a bull sees a possible threat, it resists. To prod the bull, men bite and bend its tail. They cut the thick rope that passes through its nostrils. Imagine the pain the bull endures when this rope rubs against its sensitive nasal system at high speed. In addition, the bull's body is poked with the same knife to urge it forward. Without aggravating the bull, you cannot conduct Jallikattu.

The point is that it is not the owner of the bull or the family that is going to embrace the bull when it comes out. Ten to fifteen strangers are jumping on it, trying to hold on to some part of its body. Unlike the owner or family, these strangers may not treat the bull with care. The bulls do not only suffer physical injury but also mental trauma. For 364 days, the bull is treated like a child of the family, but on one day, the family allows it to be manhandled. Would we as humans allow our children to be subjected to such treatment?

Animal Behavioural Science

According to animal behavioral science, most animals, including bulls and cows, act and respond like humans. They feel pain, trauma, fear, and affection. It is time our lawmakers understand this. The welfare of the animals should be prioritized, and outdated methods of encouraging the bulls should be reconsidered.

Conclusion

Therefore, the question, are bulls really tortured in Jallikattu?, requires a nuanced answer. Yes, certain methods can be painful, but the sport can be conducted without cruelty. The essence of Jallikattu lies in the respect and love for the bulls.