Vaadivaasal by C.S Chellappa | Graphic Novel | Perumal Murugan & Appupen
Pride, ego, brutish strength - Jallikattu, a game not just about humans and beasts.
Title: Vaadivaasal
Author: CS Chellappa
Graphic Novel Adaptation by Perumal Murugan & Appupen ( illustrator)
Publishers: Simon and Schuster
Year of Publication: 1949 (novella) , 2025 ( Graphic Novel)
Number of Pages: 113
Vaadivaasal ( The Arena ) by C.S. Chellappa, originally a Tamil novella, has now taken the form of a gripping graphic novel. At just around 100 pages, it’s a quick read, yet one that leaves a lasting impression. The story revolves around Jallikattu, the famous Tamil Nadu bull-taming sport, where a young man, Pichi, takes on the zamindar’s formidable bull, Kaari. This isn’t just any match—it’s a battle fuelled by revenge and legacy. Kaari had gored Pichi’s father to death in the previous Jallikattu, and now, Pichi must decide whether to meet the same fate or conquer the beast.
Jallikattu: A Sport Beyond the Arena
Jallikattu is more than just a sport in Tamil Nadu; it is a tradition, a marker of Tamil identity, and a test of courage. Held during the festival of Pongal, this ancient spectacle dates back to Sangam literature, where it was referred to as "eru thazhuvuthal," meaning "embracing the bull."
During the festival, news channels broadcast the event as young men in neon-colored T-shirts take their chances against raging bulls. Some participants manage to hold on and win prizes—such as motorbikes, cash, or even tractors—while others are thrown off and may suffer serious injuries, including being fatally gored. Known as "Veera Vilayattu," this event tests the strength and bravery of those who take part.
Jallikattu has also been featured in Tamil cinema. For instance, "Murattu Kaalai" showcases Rajinikanth as he faces a fierce bull and emerges victorious, while "Virumaandi" offers a more realistic depiction of the sport during festival times, with Kamal Haasan jumping into action amidst the chaos of the arena.
Despite its dangers, Jallikattu remains deeply rooted in Tamil culture, symbolizing self-sufficiency and the bond between humans and animals. Bulls are not only bred for sport; they are considered part of the family and play a vital role in agriculture and the preservation of indigenous cattle breeds.
The sport gained significant attention in recent years due to mass protests against government efforts to ban it, reinforcing its status as a symbol of Tamil identity.
Review and Thoughts (Spoilers Ahead!)
What makes this adaptation stand out to me is the way the illustrations capture the raw intensity of the bullfight. The cover, painted in striking red and black, immediately hints at the bloodshed and violence inside. Inside, the pages are in black and white, creating a stark, almost documentary-like realism. Appupen’s artwork brilliantly conveys the speed, strength, and brutality of Kaari, making every moment of the contest pulse with energy.
I noticed that the text in the graphic novel is minimal, leaving much of the storytelling to the visuals. While it doesn’t deeply explore emotions, the powerful sketches effectively convey the tension and action. For a more complete understanding of the emotions, the atmosphere of Jallikattu, and the deeper essence of the story, I would prefer reading the original text novella.
But is Vaadivaasal merely a tale of man versus beast? Not quite. At its core, it is a story of ego and pride—those of both Pichi and the Zamindar. Pichi fights to honor a promise made to his father, while the Zamindar, unable to accept defeat, destroys his own prized bull, viewing Kaari’s loss as a personal humiliation.
The book also provides insightful glimpses into society. I found it striking how the crowd initially cheers for Pichi but quickly turns on the zamindar’s fallen bull. Murugan’s reckless actions also endanger the participants. The mob mentality, the fleeting nature of admiration, and the brutal consequences of pride all come alive in this short yet powerful narrative.
In my view, Vaadivaasal is a must-read for anyone who enjoys intense storytelling rich with action, culture, and human pride.
Rating : 3.5 ⭐ / 5
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