Cockfights take center stage amid Sankranti festivities in Andhra Pradesh

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As the country celebrates the festival of harvest- Sankranti, the high-stakes tradition of cockfighting is once again at the forefront, drawing crowd and attention. Despite the High Court’s ban on these events, arenas across the Godavari and Krishna delta regions are teeming with activity, turning into hubs of betting, gambling, and bloody spectacle.

Sankranti, the most important festival in Andhra Pradesh, is marked by a variety of cultural events, but cockfighting remains the star attraction. Roosters, trained months in advance and fitted with sharp knives, engage in brutal battles that captivate onlookers. Though rooted in tradition, the practice has evolved into a large-scale gambling enterprise, drawing punters and spectators from across states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.

Prominent figures, including businessmen, industrialists, and even lawmakers, actively participate in these events. This widespread involvement has led to tacit governmental support, despite the Andhra Pradesh High Court ruling in January 2024 that banned the violent sport as a form of animal cruelty.

As reported by the Times of India, across the state, over 800 cockfighting arenas have emerged, equipped with floodlights, VIP galleries, and extensive seating arrangements. Some areas, like Bhimavaram in West Godavari and Mummidivaram in East Godavari, have turned into hotspots, hosting massive crowds. In Vijayawada’s Ramavarappadu, an estimated three lakh people are expected to attend, with preparations including food stalls and traditional delicacies such as arisalu and chakralu.

The stakes are high, both for the roosters and the gamblers. Roosters of prized breeds like Nemali, Abras, and Red Eagle are sold for as much as ₹3 lakh, and betting in these arenas often exceeds ₹150-200 crore. Adding to the spectacle are casino-style gambling setups, dice games, and even prizes like motorcycles for the winning roosters.

Despite the High Court’s ban and directives to district collectors to curb these activities, enforcement remains lax. Local police face immense pressure from politicians and influential community members, many of whom attend these events as chief guests. Organizers openly advertise the fights, and on-the-spot cash facilities ensure smooth betting operations.

Cockfighting’s cultural veneer often shields it from stricter crackdowns. “This tradition is carried out under the guise of culture, but it normalizes violence and desensitizes children and youth,” said Dr. Karri Rama Reddy, a psychiatrist and BC Roy Award recipient. He emphasized the need for promoting alternative traditional activities that do not involve cruelty.

As reported by Deccan Herald, Animal rights activists and child welfare advocates have voiced serious concerns about the impact of cockfighting on society. Children exposed to such violence may develop a skewed perception of cruelty. Furthermore, accidents during fights, such as injuries from the sharp knives tied to roosters, have proven fatal in the past.

“Cockfighting events often involve child labor, gambling, and other illegal activities, posing risks to public safety,” said one activist. Authorities are urged to implement stricter measures, though enforcement remains a significant challenge.

As Sankranti progresses, the state is abuzz with both cultural vibrancy and contentious debates over cockfighting. While the tradition draws locals and outsiders alike, the ethical implications and legal defiance cast a shadow over the festivities.

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