Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is scheduled to inaugurate the newly-constructed Kalaignar Centenary Jallikattu Arena in Keelakarai near Alanganallur, Madurai district tomorrow, on January 24. This Jallikattu stadium is dedicated to the memory of the late DMK leader M. Karunanidhi.
In a social media message, on platform X (formerly Twitter), Mr. Stalin conveyed his intention to inaugurate the arena and personally witness the traditional sport. He emphasized the grand construction of the arena by the present “Dravidian model” government, highlighting its significance as a cultural identity of Tamil Nadu.
The announcement of the Kalaignar Centenary Jallikattu Arena’s construction was officially made by the Tamil Nadu government in 2022. Nestled on the foothills of Vaithumalai, the arena showcases a viewers’ gallery with 3,700 seats spread across two floors. Complementing this, it encompasses crucial facilities like a bull shed, a bull barn, and a veterinary hospital. To enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators, the premises are also designated to house a museum.
In anticipation of the inauguration, the state government organized cultural events. A significant number of attendees, comprising 1,500 school students and 1,500 college students from Madurai, Dindigul, Theni, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts, participated in these events at the Tamukkam grounds.
Ahead of the grand occasion, P Moorthy, the State Commercial Tax and Registration Minister, conducted an inspection of the arena and its preparations on Monday. He emphasized the importance of fostering a festive spirit among people attending the event and relayed instructions to district officials accordingly.
Simultaneously, the School Education Department orchestrated a cultural tour for the 3,000 students. The tour included visits to the Keeladi archaeological museum, the Kalaignar Centenary Library, cultural events at the Tamukkam grounds, and a trip to the Vandiyur Teppakulam. This multi-faceted approach aimed to provide participants with a diverse and enriching cultural experience surrounding the inauguration of the Kalaignar Centenary Jallikattu Arena.