The three-day Sankranti festival in Andhra Pradesh saw the immense popularity of cockfighting with wagers reaching an estimate of billions of rupees.
Cockfights in Konaseema to Rayalaseema resembled grand festivals in their scale. In the West Godavari districts, individual bets reached around 20,000,000 INR or around nearly 230,000 USD.
Police conducted sporadic raids to curb cockfights and other gambling events. However, there were not enough authorities to enforce the law, leading the events to continue.
Organizers devised various strategies to entice participants, including serving traditional delicacies, and these proved to be effective. Some events also featured female anchors to add excitement.
Crowds flocked to arenas, particularly in Bapatla district’s Nagaram Mandal. In the united Guntur district, individual bets reached as high as 700,000 INR (8,061 USD).
Winners of cockfights in Kakinada districts walked away with premium prizes, including motorcycles and Mahindra Thar vehicles.
Prominent anchor Sreemukhi also entertained crowds in Narsapuram, making it a memorable event for attendees.
