Elaborate Arrangements for Sankranthi Cockfight in Andhra
Sankranti cockfight preparations are in full swing in the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh. Large cockfighting arenas, locally known as barulu, are established with great arrangements in many districts.
Areas like Bhimavaram, Undi, Seesali, Akiveedu, Yalamanchili, Kalagampudi, Duggirala, Mirzapurm and Muramulla are witnessing intense activities. Cockfighting activities, traditionally confined to West Godavari, Eluru, Konaseema and Krishna districts, are now spread to Kakinada, NTR, Bapatla, Prakasam, Nellore and Anakapalle districts. In some places, public representatives are directly involved in organizing events.
The number of arenas has increased exponentially this year. According to a report, around 450 arenas are being prepared in Godavari districts alone, compared to 150-200 last year. Large arenas are spread over an area of 5 to 10 acres with separate parking areas. Property schemes, farms and gardens near highways are being turned into cockfighting venues.
Organizers use synthetic arenas to prevent injuries to the roosters. Large arenas can seat 4,000 to 5,000 spectators at a time. Entry is allowed only with special tokens, and food and drinks are provided by the organisers. There are also large LED screens, projectors for night events, caravans and private security guards.
The events attract visitors from both Telugu states as well as from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. This has led to huge demand for hotel rooms in Bhimavaram, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Tanuku and nearby towns. Hotel rooms are rented for 30,000 to 50,000 Indian rupees for three days. In places where there are no hotels, tents are set up to accommodate visitors.
Millions of rupees are expected to change hands during the three days of Sankranti. Each arena can host 25 to 40 fights per day, with bets ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh per fight. High value roosters, including imported breeds, priced between ₹ 2 lakh and ₹ 4 lakh, are brought in specifically for these events.
