Kidai Maadu

"Kidai Maadu" refers to the Pulikulam cattle breed, named for their use in penning fields for manure and their reddish-brown markings. Also known as Jallikattu maadu or Sentharai, the Pulikulam is a small, grey Zebu cattle breed indigenous to Tamil Nadu, particularly the Madurai and Sivaganga districts, and is known for its hardiness and suitability for traditional agricultural practices.

Key Characteristics

• Name: Known as Kidai Maadu for their role in penning and manuring fields.
• Appearance: Typically grey in color, often with dark grey or fawn markings. They are smaller in size compared to other breeds.
• Habitat: Commonly found in the Madurai and Sivaganga districts of Tamil Nadu.
• Purpose: Reared for their dung, which was historically used as an organic fertilizer in agricultural fields. They are also associated with Jallikattu, the bull-taming festival.
• Temperament: Generally small and hardy, suitable for agricultural labor.

Cultural Significance

• Traditional Farming: The practice of using Kidai Maadu for penning fields reflects a traditional agricultural system where herders would bring their animals to farmers' fields to fertilize the soil with their dung.
• Revival Efforts: Initiatives are underway to support herders and revive the Kidai Maadu tradition, recognizing the importance of these indigenous breeds for soil health and livelihoods.