The fight for Jallikattu is on the streets literally, with youngsters staging peaceful protests at various places in the State.
Several actors and actresses have pledged their support for this Tamil sport which has been banned by the Supreme Court.
Senior actors like Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan were among the first to pledge their support to this.
Suriya, Simbu, Sivakarthikeyan, Dhanush, Jayam Ravi and several actresses have also expressed their support.
Recently, actor Vijay release a video in the social media pledging his support. He elaborated that Peta should be banned from the country. He said, ‘Law is only to preserve the culture and rights of people—Jallikattu is Tamils’ identity. Hats off to all the youngsters, who are protesting against the ban without any personal gain and political support. If the arrested protesters get released, will feel happy. If the organization (PETA) responsible for the ban gets abolished, the entire Tamil Nadu will be happy.’
Actor Jayam Ravi who is away in Talakona for shooting his upcoming movie too had taken to twitter to say he supports. He wrote, ‘Kudos every Tamilan out there fighting for our right. Proud of my fans for doing their bit on my behalf. Talakona forest shoot for a month. My love with you all.’
Actor Vikram too has released a statement, ‘I strongly believe and wish that Jallikattu, the traditional sport of Tamils should be held. My heartfelt support for the protest of Tamil people, especially to our youngsters and students. I’m sure the protest will become a huge success.’
Suriya who is touring the State to promote his upcoming movie C 3 has issued a statement in Tamil which said, ‘Those fighting for a cause all by themselves are a result of true intentions.
Jallikattu is a sport that has been happening in our state for hundreds of years. Though PETA has won the case in the Supreme Court, they’ve lost it in front of the people. It’s ironic that those who want to see our local breeds perish are the ones who’re advocating the ban on Jallikattu in the pretext of animal cruelty. Laws are made for the people. We shouldn’t allow our fingers to pick our own eyes. The thousands of youngsters protesting amplifies the emotions of every Tamilian. I salute and send my regards to those protesting for our rights in a peaceful manner. I connect emotionally with them.’
Actor and general secretary of Nadigar Sangam Vishal has sent a letter to Prime Minster Narendra Modi on Jallikattu seeking an ordinance to allow Jallikattu, an age old tradition practiced by the people of Tamilnadu.
The letter said, ‘ As an animal lover, I can vouch that the bulls in Jallikattu are not subjected to cruelty by any means. In contrary the practice of Jallikattu can only help us preserve our native cattle.’
The note further added, ‘The youth in Tamilnadu have joined hands for this cause from various cities and have boldly come forward to voice their opinion on the streets seeking to life the ban on Jallikattu.’
