Bullfighting in Nepal: The oldest recreational event

Bullfighting has long been a traditional event in various parts of the world. Every 12 months, thousands of spectators reach Taruka village in Nuwakot district to observe bullfighting competitions at some stage during Makar Sankranti. Bullfighting in Taruka has gained recognition in recent years. Many humans from outside the district and foreign travelers are attending the event. Nepali bullfighting is thought to have been added to Taruka through Jaya Prithvi Bahadur Singh, a monarch of the ancient Bajhang Kingdom, more than a century ago. We will discuss the significance of bullfighting in Nepal, its historical origins, the event’s structure, cultural implications, and ongoing issues.

The Historical Origins of Bullfighting in Nepal:

Bullfighting has ancient roots in Nepal. This event can be traced back to the past. The event showcased bravery and physical prowess among the young men. Over time, it evolved into a cultural event. It reflects the deep connection between humans and cattle in Nepalese society.

The Structure of the Bullfighting Event:

The bullfighting event in Nepal is carefully planned and organized accordingly. Typically, this event is held during local festivals. The event brings participants from different villages together. Each of them showcases their finest bulls.

The bulls are decorated with colorful decorations, and they are also led into a circular arena, where they face off against each other in a contest of strength. Expert handlers guide the bulls, and the crowd cheers them on, creating a watchable experience.

Where and when does the event take place?

As mentioned above, the festival takes place in the Nuwakot district. In a village named Tarika. It is an underprivileged village mainly popular for its vegetable production and the annual bullfight itself. From Nuwakot, it will take around three hours of a bus ride to reach Nuwakot, and from there, you can take a local vehicle to reach Taruka.

A bullfighting event takes place during the Maghe Sankranti festival in Nepal. The festival occurs on the first day of the tenth month of the Nepali Calendar, Magh. As per the English calendar, it will take place in January every year. So, you can plan on this month having a great experience with bullfighting.

More about the event and what happens:

Bullfighting is an event during the winter season. Winter in Nepal is a post-harvest time, meaning no crops are in the field. There is open space, allowing bulls and other animals to play and move freely. Owners of the bull prepare them months before the arrival of the event. The owners chose the most healthy and fierce one and fed them a high-protein diet to make them more energetic and strong. However, during the event, there is no direct role for bull owners except cheering and their bull from out of the field.

After the fight, the bull that loses runs away. Usually, the owner of the bull that wins takes the losing bull as a reward. However, in recent years, cash prizes have also been introduced as a reward.

How is this event different?

The bullfighting event in Taruka village is not like what we have been watching. Unlike the bullfighting events held in Spain and other countries, where men take part in the event, bullfighting in Nepal has no such custom. No human being is made a part of the event; only the bulls are made to fight each other. Very little or no blood is shed during this festival.

The Cultural Significance of Bullfighting in Nepal:

Bullfighting is more than just a thrilling adventure. It holds cultural significance in Nepal. The event symbolizes the agricultural roots of the nation and pays tribute to the sacred bond between humans and animals. Additionally, bullfighting shows community and celebration, which brings people together from various regions to honor their shared heritage.

Controversy and Ethical Concerns:

Despite its cultural significance, bullfighting has become a topic of heated debate in recent years. Animal rights activists argue that the event perpetuates cruelty and suffering towards the bulls. They are forced to fight for entertainment. People are raising their voices to ban this practice. They are discussing finding alternative ways to preserve Nepalese traditions without compromising animal welfare.

Balancing Tradition and Ethical Considerations:

Finding a balance between preserving tradition and addressing ethical concerns remains a huge challenge. Should we stop this nonsense activity for our entertainment or should we protect it as our culture? We know bullfighting emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage. Proper regulation and training can minimize harm to the animals as well. Meanwhile, opponents argue for alternative cultural events that showcase bravery and skill without subjecting animals to harm.

Conclusion:

The bullfighting event in Nepal is a display of cultural heritage and tradition. It is deeply connected to the country’s rural communities. While it is celebrated by many for its historical significance and sense of community, it faces growing opposition from those concerned about animal welfare. As the debate continues, it is crucial for Nepalese society to find ways to preserve their rich cultural heritage. They should also consider the ethical treatment of animals. By striking a balance between tradition and compassion, Nepal can pave the way for cultural festivities that respect both its past and present values. The future of bullfighting in Nepal depends on a thoughtful decision of ours. We must take this event forward only with the safety of animals in mind. We should not use those animals for entertainment.

FAQ:

Does bullfighting hurt the bull?

Ans: Yes, The bulls suffer from a protracted death in the bullfighting arena.

 Is bullfighting a traditional sport in Nepal?

Ans: Yes, bullfighting has been a traditional sport in certain regions of Nepal, particularly during festivals.

Where are bullfighting events usually held in Nepal?

Ans:  Bullfighting events in Nepal are commonly held in rural areas and during various local festivals.

Is bullfighting in Nepal facing any controversies or challenges?

Ans:  Yes, there have been debates and discussions about the ethical aspects of bullfighting in Nepal, particularly related to animal rights and welfare.

Trailer of Bullfight event I was a part of as producer: