Andhra Pradesh breeders feeding roosters Shilajit, Viagra & Steroids to prepare them for cockfights

Cockfights in rural Andhra Pradesh have taken a controversial turn as breeders resort to feeding their roosters with Viagra and other steroids to enhance their performance. This comes as many champions have been affected by a viral disease, leaving them weak and unable to fight. With the upcoming Sankranti celebrations, which include cockfights as a significant part of the festivities, breeders are desperate to revitalize their birds.

Cockfights, known for being intense and often brutal, attract thousands of spectators who place bets on the winning bird. These fights, held mostly in undivided Guntur, Krishna, and the two Godavari districts, involve trained roosters engaging in battles that can result in death. The betting during the festival can amount to hundreds of crores of rupees.

In an attempt to restore the fighting spirit of their birds, breeders have turned to Shilajit, Viagra 100, and various vitamins. While these substances may temporarily boost the birds' strength, veterinary experts warn that the long-term use of hormone-boosting drugs can cause severe harm to the roosters. Consumption of such poultry, with mutations induced by the drugs, may also pose risks to humans.


Investigations reveal that breeders are even using aphrodisiacs intended for human use. However, it remains unclear whether these drugs truly enhance the fighting abilities of the roosters. The breeders justify their actions by explaining the lack of quality fighting cocks due to the viral disease and respiratory ailments that have affected the poultry industry. They believe that the weight and mobility of a bird are crucial factors in cockfights, hence the need for performance-enhancing drugs.

Despite concerns raised by experts, breeders continue to administer the drugs shortly before the fights, claiming positive results. However, the long-term consequences for both the birds and the consumers of such poultry remain uncertain.

As Sankranti approaches, the issue of doping in cockfights raises ethical and health-related questions. The authorities and relevant agencies are urged to take necessary actions to ensure the welfare of the birds and the safety of the public.