Bull owners and enthusiasts in Haveri district have declared an ongoing protest starting December 6 against the state government's implementation of 18 conditions for conducting bull-taming events during the festival season. The traditional rural sport, known locally as Hori Habba, faces significant restrictions that organizers claim make the celebrations impossible to conduct.
The Protest Plan and Procession
Under the leadership of the Akhil Karnataka Raitara Janapada Kride Hori Habba Horata Samiti, protesters plan to organize a massive bull procession on December 6. The march will begin from Purasiddeshwara Temple and proceed through MG Road, JP Circle, and JH Patel Circle before culminating at the Deputy Commissioner's office. Organizers anticipate over 500 bulls will participate in this demonstration.
Protesters intend to establish temporary shelters in front of the DC's office and maintain their demonstration there alongside their animals. We will set up tents in front of the DC's office and conduct the protest there, keeping the bulls with us, confirmed the bull owners. They have arranged for fodder and water provisions to sustain the animals throughout the protest duration.
Failed Petitions and Government Response
The decision to protest follows unsuccessful attempts to engage with local authorities. Bull owners and enthusiasts previously submitted petitions to Deputy Commissioner Vijay Mahantesh Danammanavar and District Minister Shivanand Patil, but received no official response. Although the district minister reportedly waived some conditions, the core issues remain unresolved.
Mariyappa Somapur, a bull owner, expressed frustration that while Haveri district administration obstructs the festival, neighboring districts continue holding bull-taming competitions without similar restrictions. Specifically, Shimoga district, particularly in Shikaripura and surrounding areas, continues to host these traditional events.
Cultural Significance of Hori Habba
Hori Habba represents an ancient tradition with deep cultural roots in Haveri district. According to enthusiast Ramesh Mantagani, the bull festival celebration dates back to the time of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata era. During Diwali festivities, farmers perform special prayers to cows, decorate bulls elaborately, and parade them through villages before participating in bull competitions.
The festival bulls command enormous popularity, with lakhs of fans following these events. The sport season traditionally runs from Deepavali to Makara Sankranti, making the current restrictions particularly disruptive to cultural practices. Participants argue that rather than imposing restrictive conditions, the government should provide priority status and financial support to preserve this traditional folk sport.
Protest organizers remain steadfast in their commitment, declaring they will continue their demonstration until the government grants unconditional permission for bull-taming events to proceed.
