As Sankranti approaches, many villages in the Godavari and coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh are getting ready for cockfights. This three-day festival is expected to involve a lot of money, with the cost of fighting roosters increasing by over 30% this year. The demand is high, and a high-quality breed can now cost between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh. Payments are made through digital wallets to avoid being traced.
This year’s cockfights will feature a battle between the exotic Peruvian double-crossed rooster and the traditional Aseel, which is native to Andhra Pradesh. Breeders reportedly feed steroids and aphrodisiacs to enhance the birds’ performance in these highly anticipated fights.
Illegal cockfight arenas are appearing in interior areas, where trained roosters fight to the death. Onlookers bet on the outcomes during the Sankranti festival.
Peruvian roosters are highly sought after, and people from various regions are purchasing them for Rs 2-3 lakh for the fights. With the upcoming elections in 2024, political leaders are expected to promote cockfights to gain popularity. The minimum bet for each game in the Godavari region is not less than Rs 3 crore and can go up to Rs 15 crore, depending on the number of punters involved.
An estimated Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 crore is wagered on cockfights during the three-day Sankranti festival in Andhra Pradesh. The festival starts on January 14 and concludes on January 16 or 17.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court has directed the government and police to prevent illegal cockfights during the Sankranti festival.
Cockfights are considered a cherished tradition in many villages in Andhra Pradesh, involving two trained roosters fighting until one retreats or dies. Thousands of people, including politicians and professionals, participate in these events and bet on their chosen roosters.
Experts estimate that around Rs 2,000 crore will be bet on cockfights during the three-day Sankranti festivities. The Kaaki Dega, Dega, and Kaaki Nemali breeds of fighting roosters are in high demand.
Cockfights also boost the local economy, with hotels filling up and businesses like liquor shops and eateries experiencing increased sales.
