Traditional Bull racing in Pakistan - in pictures

A jockey on a plank in Pakistan. This is bull racing, eastern Punjabi style. All photos: AP
A jockey on a plank in Pakistan. This is bull racing, eastern Punjabi style. All photos: AP
The traditional sport captures the raw energy of village life in Malal, one of bull racing's most vibrant hubs in the Attock district
The traditional sport captures the raw energy of village life in Malal, one of bull racing's most vibrant hubs in the Attock district
Bulls are yoked together by wooden frames and behind them, holding ropes and his honour, is a man on a plank
Bulls are yoked together by wooden frames and behind them, holding ropes and his honour, is a man on a plank
There's always a chance for chaos as some jockeys, like this one, lose control
There's always a chance for chaos as some jockeys, like this one, lose control
Bull racing has deep roots in the Attock district of eastern Punjab province
Bull racing has deep roots in the Attock district of eastern Punjab province
Hundreds of people gather every year to witness the spectacle
Hundreds of people gather every year to witness the spectacle
It is more than just a sport, it is a part of the region's living heritage
It is more than just a sport, it is a part of the region's living heritage
The hustle and bustle becomes a source of income for enterprising locals, like this vendor who is preparing traditional sweets, called jalebi
The hustle and bustle becomes a source of income for enterprising locals, like this vendor who is preparing traditional sweets, called jalebi
These hawkers have colourful ribbons and other items available for customers to decorate their bulls
These hawkers have colourful ribbons and other items available for customers to decorate their bulls
A member of judges panel announces the winner. More than 100 bulls competed in this event
A member of judges panel announces the winner. More than 100 bulls competed in this event
It is a festive atmosphere and the winning team throw bank notes in the air to celebrate
It is a festive atmosphere and the winning team throw bank notes in the air to celebrate
And continue their celebrations with a victory dance
And continue their celebrations with a victory dance