Avaniapuram jallikattu, the first big bull-taming event of Pongal in Madurai, took place on January 15, 2026. The event was mostly safe, with about 60 people, including bull-tamers and spectators, getting minor injuries. It started at 7.15 a.m., flagged off by Minister P. Moorthy. Important officials like Madurai Collector K.J. Praveen Kumar and Commissioner of Police J. Loganathan were present. The bull-tamers took an oath to keep the event safe. A total of 937 bulls and 568 bull-tamers joined in 12 rounds. All participants had medical checks and bulls underwent fitness tests before the event. For transparency, a digital scoreboard was used. The event finished around 7 p.m. Balamurugan from Valayankulam was named the best bull-tamer after taming 22 bulls. He won a car as the first prize. Karthik of Avaniapuram came second by taming 17 bulls and received a motorcycle. The best bull was owned by the Virumandi brothers of Avaniapuram, who won a tractor. The second-best bull belonged to G.R. Karthik Velu, who got a gold coin. Police ensured safety with adequate staff. The Indian Red Cross helped injured people, and Animal Husbandry Department officials checked the bulls. Ambulances and fire trucks were ready on site. Prizes for winners included gold and silver coins, almirahs, travel bags, chairs, and utensils. The next jallikattu events are scheduled at Palamedu on January 16 and the famous Alanganallur on January 17.