The impasse on Jallikattu doesn’t seem like ending. Now the Supreme Court has declined to step into the matter and directed the petitioner to approach Madras High Court. Incidentally the Madras High Court had said just yesterday that it won’t interfere in the matter as the ruling for banning Jallikattu was passed by the Supreme Court. After getting banned by the Supreme Court in 2014, there were protests and public outpouring against the decision, but not quite close to what is being seen now. Not just are a ‘sea’ of protesters cropping up in various parts of Tamil Nadu including Chennai’s Marina Beach, the Jallikattu movement has also got a shot in the arm via various celebrities also showing their support.
So here’s a list of some of the most well known faces, fighting for Jallikattu:
Legendary music composer AR Rahman was the latest to support the movement after he announced his intention to fast tomorrow.
I’m fasting tomorrow to support the spirit of
Tamilnadu!— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) January 19, 2017
Just four days ago Rajanikanth had expressed his support for Jallikattu and reports suggest that he might even join a silent assembly organized by Tamil Nadu’s top actors in support of Jallikattu.
Dhanush, most well known for the song Kolaveri Di was one of the first celebrities who showed their support.
#Jallikattu is an integral element of the voice and identity of Tamilians. #ISupportJallikattu#WeNeedJallikattu#TamilCulture
— Dhanush (@dhanushkraja) January 10, 2017
Actor Kamal Hassan has been one of the most vocal supporters of Jallikattu by speaking about its millenial old heritage. He also questioned the connection between animal rights and vegetarianism and even talked about his personal respect for bulls.
Even cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin tweeted out to laud the peaceful protests in favor of Jallikattu
Scenes of peaceful protest all around TN.Unity, peace and resolve will show our plea in the right light.#peacefulprotests#jallikattu
— Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) January 18, 2017
Though he did not directly support it, Sehwag was all praise about the protests being conducted in a peaceful manner
Wonderful to see protest in a peaceful way in Tamil Nadu.Request to maintain peace in your passion.Peaceful protest will be a lesson for all
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 18, 2017
Also chess wizard Viswanathan Anand called Jallikattu a cultural symbol which pointing out that the main point here wasn’t animal rights but was tradition and livelihood.
#jallikattu is a cultural symbol . Respect it. Im all for animal rights but here that is not the point.tradition & livelihood are .
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) January 19, 2017