Vaadivasal Graphic Novel: Language No Barrier for Collaboration
Perumal Murugan and Appupen collaborate on Vaadivasal graphic novel, transcending language barriers.
Photo by Kristian Strand
Tamil writer Perumal Murugan and illustrator Appupen collaborated on a graphic novel adaptation of C.S. Chellappa’s novel Vaadivasal, emphasizing that language was not a barrier to their partnership on 18 January 2026. Murugan, who compiled Chellappa’s works, wrote the text, while Appupen created the illustrations.
Appupen visited regions known for Jallikattu to gain firsthand experience. The discussion also touched on the 2017 Jallikattu protests and the criticism of animal cruelty. Murugan defended Jallikattu as a traditional Tamil sport, while acknowledging concerns about animal rights.
The duo are now working on a graphic novel based on Murugan’s novel Poonachi.
Key Facts
Vaadivasal: Graphic novel adaptation
Perumal Murugan: Text writer
Appupen: Illustrator
Jallikattu: Traditional Tamil sport
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper I: Art and Culture (Jallikattu as a cultural tradition)
GS Paper II: Polity (Legislation related to animal rights and state laws)
GS Paper III: Environment (Animal welfare issues)
Potential Essay Topic: Balancing cultural traditions with animal rights
Visual Insights
Jallikattu Practice Areas in Tamil Nadu
Map showing the regions in Tamil Nadu where Jallikattu is traditionally practiced. This highlights the cultural significance of the sport in specific areas.
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More Information
Background
The tradition of Jallikattu, also known as 'Eru Thazhuvuthal,' has deep roots in Tamil Nadu's ancient history, dating back over 2,000 years. Archaeological evidence, such as seals and cave paintings from the Indus Valley Civilization and later Tamil classical periods, suggests the presence of bull-taming rituals. Initially, it was a way for men to showcase their bravery and strength, often as a rite of passage or a means to win a bride.
Over time, it evolved into a community event closely tied to the Pongal harvest festival, symbolizing gratitude to cattle for their role in agriculture. The sport has faced legal challenges, particularly concerning animal welfare, leading to bans and subsequent protests advocating for its cultural significance and regulation rather than outright prohibition. The debate continues to revolve around balancing tradition with animal rights.
Latest Developments
In recent years, the focus has shifted towards regulating Jallikattu to ensure animal welfare. The Tamil Nadu government has enacted laws to permit the sport under specific guidelines, including mandatory veterinary checks for bulls, regulated arena sizes, and restrictions on the use of sharp objects. Animal rights organizations continue to monitor the events and raise concerns about potential cruelty.
The Supreme Court has also played a role, examining the legality of the state laws and emphasizing the need for strict adherence to animal welfare standards. The debate now centers on effective implementation of regulations and finding a balance between preserving cultural traditions and preventing animal suffering. Future developments may involve further refinements to the regulatory framework based on ongoing monitoring and legal challenges.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Jallikattu tradition: 1. It is primarily celebrated during the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu. 2. Archaeological evidence suggests its existence dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. 3. The Supreme Court has consistently upheld the practice without any regulations. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Jallikattu is a Pongal tradition with Indus Valley roots. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Supreme Court has intervened and emphasized the need for regulations.
2. Which of the following Acts is most directly related to the ongoing debates surrounding Jallikattu?
- A.The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- B.The Environment Protection Act, 1986
- C.The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
- D.The Forest Conservation Act, 1980
Show Answer
Answer: C
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 is the most relevant as it deals directly with the welfare and treatment of animals, which is the core of the Jallikattu debate.
3. Assertion (A): Graphic novels can serve as effective tools for cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Reason (R): Visual storytelling transcends language barriers and can convey complex narratives in an accessible manner. In the context of the above, which of the following is correct?
- A.Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
- B.Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
- C.A is true but R is false
- D.A is false but R is true
Show Answer
Answer: A
Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why graphic novels are effective for cross-cultural understanding.