Apart from natural beauty and spirituality, the divine land of Kerala is full of a number of water attractions. Snake boat race is one such thrilling event of this green state that draws a number of tourists from all over the world. This unparalleled attraction of ‘God’s Own Country‘ signifies the excellent team spirit, integration and amity of the people. This water carnival is basically associated with Onam, the harvest festival celebrated in the month of August/September.
Major Boats Races
Boat race in Kerala is the largest team sport in the world. These races are preceded by colourful water parades. Huge snake boat, manned by four helmsmen, 25 singers and 100-125 oarsmen, serve as the centre of attraction. Some of the major boat race events in Kerala are:
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Named after the former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, this race is an annual event organized in Alappuzha. Over 16 chundan vallams participate in the race and there are prizes for different categories. There are separate races for women as well.
- Champakulam Moolam Boat Race
It is the oldest and most popular snake boat race in Kerala and is linked to the Sree Krishna Temple at Ambalappuzha. On the moolam day of the Malayalam month Midhunam, the race is organized on the Champakulam Lake.
- Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali
This two day Aranmula Boat Race is popular for vibrant competition, colourful performances and energetic procession. It is also conducted during Onam. The popular activity of this event is the procession of Sree Krishna participated by children dressed as nymphs and princesses.
- Payippad Jalotsavam
This three day annual boat race is celebrated on Payippad Lake, 35 km from Alappuzha. It is enjoyed with the installation of the deity at the Subramanya Swamy Temple, Haripad.
A few other interesting boat race events are ATDC Boat Race, Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race, Neerettupuram Boat Race, Kumarakom Boat Race, Mahatma Boat Race, Kottapuram Boat Race, Indira Gandhi Boat Race etc. which are organized in the months of August – September.
