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