CHENNAI: All roads were leading to Marina on Friday as countless people thronged the sea front to join the momentous protest to lift the ban on Jallikattu.
The government’s announcement of an ordinance, however, failed to cut ice with the protesters who remained defiant and asked for an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and a ban on PETA. They demanded a permanent solution for the bulls to charge from vadivasal (point from where bulls are released in Jallikattu).
“Students have taken a very bold step and we are all here to support them. I have grown up with this sport and want my children to experience it as well,” said B Nandakumar, who had come with his wife and children.
Apart from relentless cry for the Chief Minister to address them, there were those who condemned Prime Minister Modi. “Modi does not care about Tamil Nadu,” said 37-year-old N Harna of Tondiarpet, who asked, “He is only bothered about pleasing foreign companies. What prevents the Centre to resolve the issue? If they can do demonetisation, why not this?”
The protest could easily have been mistaken for a carnival considering the revelry along slogan-chanting. Tamil culture and art were on display.
Folk songs of Jallikattu and village life were sung. Some paraded their bulls to the hooting and cheers from the crowd. Further, one could get a glimpse of Silambattam and sand art. That wasn’t all. Cars and vans had speakers blaring music to which people gleefully danced to, some even atop vehicles.
Vans passed by and flung water bottles and packets while those carrying food packets were stopped and let off only after all the food had been distributed. Though beach vendors had a good run for the last couple of days, most of them remained shut on Friday, leaving many to quench their thirst with soft drinks.
The camaraderie between people was heartwarming. Strangers helped each other out whether it was sharing water or helping an injured with first aid. People came in alone but went out with new friends.
“It is wonderful to see so many people here,” said Komalavally Kannan who had decided to stay for the night. “I am so happy it is happening now. We are Tamilians and we want to bring back our culture,” she added.
Many women were keen to stay overnight but hesitated because of bathroom facilities. Certain colleges in the area have let women use their bathrooms.