Dhirio-Bull Fighting:
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During a discussion in the state Assembly legislators across party lines demanded the legalisation of bull fighting which is locally called Dhirio in Goa.
- Bull fighting, locally in Goa is referred to as dhirio or dhiri, is an integral part of Goa’s cultural fabric.
- It is organised after the harvest season.
- These bull fights have traditionally been held in paddy fields and football grounds of Goa, with village shepherds bringing in their animals.
- Dhiri was a “part and parcel of every Church fest” and villagers from miles around would gather to witness the popular sport.
- These bull fights have traditionally been held in paddy fields and football grounds of Goa
- A bull fight begins with two bulls dashing at each other and locking horns.
- They head-butt each other and repeatedly charge and retreat, provoked by trainers standing behind.
- Bull fights have been taking place in Goa for generations, going back to the time of the Portuguese.
- The High court in 1997 directed the state to take immediate steps to ban “all types of animal fights including bull fights and ‘dhirios.
