Kaaki Dega breed in demand for cockfights

There are many breeds of fighting roosters using for the Sankranti cockfights, but the highest demand is for Kaaki Dega, Dega, Kaaki Nemali breeds. The names indicate their fighting skills.

These breeds jump well and attack their opponents strategically and never back off, said Mr G. Ganesh Kumar, who sells fighter roosters in North Andhra.

It is believed that Kaaki Dega and Dega roosters are more ferocious during the morning while others would fight better in the evenings. Cocks are named according to the colours of their feathers.

There are over 20 varieties of fighter roosters including Kaaki, Setu, Nallamachala Setu, Parla, Savala, Nalla Savala, Kokkirayi, Kowju, Myla, Poola, Telupu Gowdu, Yerupu Gowdu, Pingali, Nallabora and Yerrapoda.

It is believed that planetary influences work on the fighter roosters as well, apart from humans. These are said to impact the blood circulation in roosters, and determine when they fight best.

“I place bets on Kaaki Dega, Dega, Kaaki Nemali roosters. I have earned lakhs of rupees in five years,” claimed R. Prakash, a punter in Vizag region.

Rearing of 'fighter' roosters involves huge costs. Mr B. Sateesh, who rears fighter birds for sale in East Godavari district, said the birds are offered a nutritious and balanced diet of millets, cereals, dry fruits, mutton kheema.

The birds are also trained daily to jump and swim to make them stronger. “Though I have several breeds in my farm, I get better profit selling Kaaki Dega, Dega, Kaaki Nemali breeds as the demand for them is very high,” Mr Sateesh said.