In the context of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP), the Thozhuvam Pastoral Festival was held on Saturday, 21 February 2026 at the Kalaignar Centenary Jallikattu Arena, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It was organized by the Thozhuvam Pastoral Research and Resource Centre and Thozhuvam Farmer Producer Company Ltd., with the objective of recognizing and honouring traditional pastoral communities who sustainably manage rangelands and preserve indigenous livestock heritage.
The event included:
- Thozhuvam Jallikattu – Cultural Grand Festival featuring indigenous bulls
- Thozhuvam Pastoral Awards recognizing leaders in pastoral conservation
- Rangeland Biodiversity Exhibition in collaboration with ATREE
- Pastoral Museum Exhibition based on Sangam-era traditions
- Documentary screenings on pastoral livelihoods and rangeland ecology
- Pastoral Herders Appreciation Ceremony
The festival featured a traditional Jallikattu competition with participation from more than 400 bulls and 200 bull-taming athletes. In addition, the Thozhuvam Awards ceremony was held, and exhibitions focusing on grazing lands were organized. Literary and archaeological displays were also presented as part of a museum exhibition. More than 2,000 people attended the event, including researchers, professors, students, and members of the general public. Mr. Vivekanandan participated in the program as well. The objectives of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) were effectively communicated to the public throughout the event. The Jallikattu competition was also livestreamed - event link: https://www.youtube.com/live/kE-BiJLzNVo.
