Andhra Pradesh: Meat of defeated Aseel roosters in cockfights fetch festive premium

Vijayawada: The meat of dead or defeated Aseel roosters in Sankranti cockfights emerged as an unexpected, high-demand commodity across Andhra Pradesh this festive season. Despite losing in the arena, these birds fetched premium prices in local markets, with buyers eagerly competing to secure the prized meat. Traders said a single defeated Aseel rooster sold for anywhere between Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000, while the meat was priced at up to Rs 1,800 per kg, reflecting the growing fascination for its taste and perceived quality.The surge in demand turned what was once a customary sharing practice into a commercial activity. Traditionally, the losing rooster is handed over to the winner, and its meat distributed among relatives and friends. This year, however, high demand and limited supply led to defeated or dead birds being specially dressed and sold. "There were buyers waiting even before the fights ended," said Ravada Suri Babu, a trader in Bhimavaram region. "People believe this meat is special, so it sells instantly."
The popularity of Aseel meat is closely linked to the bird's nutrition and rearing methods. Breeders raise these roosters on rich, high-protein diets that include mutton keema, boiled chicken, eggs, and even dry fruits such as almonds and pistachios. The intensive feeding is meant to build muscle and strength, but it also contributes to the meat's dark colour and dense texture. "Because of the protein-rich diet, the meat is considered more nutritious and flavoured," explained Pantham Rangara Rao, a poultry expert from Gannavaram.Cooking Aseel chicken is also a skill in itself. The meat requires slow cooking for nearly four hours to become tender and juicy. "If cooked patiently, it has a unique taste you won't find in regular chicken," said K Parvathamma from Amalapuram. During Sankranti, especially in the Godavari districts, serving Aseel chicken is considered a mark of respect, often reserved for special guests such as visiting sons-in-law. Traders said demand was at its peak, and traders could accept only 30 percent of orders.