The Role of Jallikattu in Promoting Cultural Identity, Traditional Sports, and Tourism in Tamil Nadu: A Study of Student Perspectives

The research titled "Jallikattu: Exploring Cultural Identity, Sports Participation, and Tourism Potential Among Tamil Nadu’s Students" studies the perceptions of youth, particularly individuals aged 17 to 25, regarding Jallikattu in the context of cultural identity, sports participation, and tourism potential. The study attempts to determine how students connect Jallikattu with Tamil heritage, their assessment of its significance as a traditional sport, and their views on its impact on Tamil Nadu's tourism sector. The research gathered responses from a diverse sample of Tamil Nadu students via an online survey using Google Forms to ascertain their perspectives on the opportunities, challenges, and cultural importance related to Jallikattu. The data collection process employed a blend of quantitative and qualitative questions to investigate various dimensions, including tourism opportunities, sporting elements, and emotional connections. Preliminary research indicates that students perceive jallikattu as not merely a sport but a vital element of Tamil culture and a powerful means of presenting Tamil Nadu's history to a global audience. Nevertheless, concerns regarding safety protocols, ethical conduct, and evolving youth engagement emerged as significant factors influencing their perspectives. The findings suggest the promotion and preservation of Jallikattu demand increased youth engagement, improved event organisation, and heightened awareness. This study shows how students can help bring Jallikattu into the modern world and act as cultural ambassadors for it ensure the sustainability of Jallikattu in the modern era, it offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and tourism officials to harmonise cultural preservation with sports development and tourism initiatives.