Sankranti Festivities: Cockfights Fuel High-Stakes Betting
By : DC Correspondent
Update: 2024-12-07 08:14 GMT
Vijayawada: The Sankranti buzz has begun in the Godavari districts, with preparations in full swing for the traditional cockfights. Roosters are being specially trained and fed to compete, aiming to impress betting enthusiasts. Some participants are even selecting roosters online using video calls to inspect and finalize their choices.
Despite restrictions, cockfights have become synonymous with Sankranti celebrations in the two Godavari districts. Participants from outside the region often outnumber locals, with over Rs 500 crore estimated to change hands during the three-day festivities.
The rearing of fighting roosters is given special attention with breeders raising them in secluded areas like oil palm plantations, near ponds, and in fields. Prominent bettors collaborate with breeders to prepare roosters under special agreements. The Godavari districts are home to approximately 400 breeding centers, both large and small.
As Sankranti approaches, bettors from other districts, states, and even abroad are making advance purchases. Using video calls, buyers assess the roosters based on fighting style, color, and size, with prices ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 3 lakh per rooster. Over 7,000 roosters are expected to be sold this month, generating an estimated Rs 25 crore in sales.
The cultural significance and economic scale of cockfights highlight their deep-rooted association with the Sankranti festivities in the region, despite ongoing controversies and restrictions.