Karnataka Ex-MLA Injured in Traditional Bull Race Festival: Dramatic Incident at Hori Habba Captured on Video

A former legislator from Karnataka suffered injuries and required hospitalization after an unfortunate incident at a traditional bull race festival.

Bengaluru:

In Karnataka's Shivamogga district, a former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) was injured when a bull attacked him during the traditional Hori Habba festival.

Hori festival is a popular rural sporting event where decorated bulls and draught cattle run through crowds of spectators while some participants attempt to control the animals.

The incident involved Mahalingappa, who previously served as an MLA for Shikaripura town. He was among the spectators at the event in Shivamogga's Balligavi. The attack occurred while he was standing near his house doorway when a bull unexpectedly charged at him and gored him.

Local residents captured footage showing people scattering as the aggressive bull moved toward them. The video reveals a white-and-grey bull targeting Mahalingappa, who desperately tried to enter a house for safety. The bull lifted him with its horns, caught his clothing, and threw him to the ground.

Following the attack, the former legislator sustained injuries and was immediately transported to a hospital for medical care. Reports confirm he is no longer in critical condition.

This incident comes shortly after four fatalities were reported in Haveri district during similar Hori events. Officials verified these deaths occurred across different locations, including areas within Haveri and Tilavalli talukas.

The Hori festival is traditionally celebrated during Diwali across several Karnataka districts, including Shivamogga, Haveri, and Uttara Kannada.