Preparations Begin for Sankranti Cockfights in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
With just two weeks left for the Sankranti festival, preparations for cockfights are in full swing across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and parts of Chhattisgarh. This year, betting on these high-stakes events has significantly increased, especially in the Godavari region, where enthusiasts eagerly await the competitions.
Cock Breeds and Training
The selection of cocks for the races is a meticulous process. Breeders often choose birds based on their color and other traits that may influence their performance during the fights. These cocks are given specialized training, a carefully planned diet, and regular exercise to ensure peak performance. Victories in cockfights are considered a matter of great pride for the owners.
Growing Business in Cock Breeding
In areas like Aswaraopet and Dammapeta villages of Kothagudem district in Telangana, near the Andhra Pradesh border, over 100 cock-breeding facilities have been set up. Additionally, many individuals work as cottage farmers, raising 10 to 50 cocks in their homes and selling them during the festive season. Buyers from neighboring states like Chhattisgarh and Odisha also travel to these regions to purchase the birds.
High-Tech Breeding Facilities
These breeding centers are equipped with modern features like CCTV cameras to monitor the birds closely. Each cock costs between Rs 10,000 and Rs 30,000 to raise and train. For breeders raising around 100 birds, the total turnover can exceed one crore rupees. The birds are fed a specialized diet that includes copper sangati, mutton keema, cashew nuts, and almond nuts. They also undergo daily swimming sessions to build strength and are exercised to toughen their skin. Vaccines and medicines are administered to prevent diseases.
Special Care for Racing Cocks
A breeder revealed that additional supplements like Ashwagandha powder are added to improve stamina, while B-complex tablets mixed in water boost overall health. Each racing cock takes about a year to a year and a half to fully mature, and their cost can go as high as Rs 40,000. The breeding centers also feature electric lights, specific fencing, and advanced monitoring systems to ensure the birds are well taken care of.
Pre-Sold Deals via Technology
Some breeders shared that several cocks are sold even before buyers physically arrive at the breeding centers. Using video calls, deals are finalized to ensure the birds are ready for immediate pickup upon the buyers’ arrival.
Conclusion
As the Sankranti festival approaches, the excitement around cockfights continues to grow. With breeders investing heavily in the care and training of these prized birds, the tradition remains a significant cultural and economic activity in the region.
