Boat race – Embodiment of Kerala’s Culture
Why Boat Race in Kerala so special?
Though there are thousands of Kerala attractions, Boat race manages to woo thousands of international and domestic tourists every year for the sheer magical moments it produces. When we talk about boat race in Kerala, we cannot help talking about the Nehru Trophy Boat Race that is an annual affair in Kerala. This is the “Mother of all Boat Races” in the state. There are many types of boats that are used for this boat race that happens in the majestic backwaters of Aleppey every year. The most interesting of these boats is the Snake Boat or the Chundan Vallams, as they are addressed in the local language of Malayalam. Boat races can be done properly only on backwaters and what better place to conduct them than the “Venice of the East”, Aleppey!
Specifications of the Boat and other details
The boats that participate in the race are around 100 to 120 feet in length and made from strong wood. A maximum of 110 rowers can be accommodated onto this boat. These Snake Boats were named thus, because they could stylishly glide through the waters just like snakes, unlike normal boats. The way these boats glide against the fast pace of water and try to beat each other which makes these races a nail-biting affairs. Winners of the race are awarded with a rolling trophy of exquisite silver, which resembles one of the Snake Boats that were used for the race. At a staggering 120 feet length, this is probably the longest equipment ever used for a sporting activity according to statistics. The entire length of the boat race is about 1400m.
Harmony as its best
These boat races are the best examples of team strength. It is indeed quite a sight to see almost 110 pairs of hands rowing the boat in exactly the same pattern and style. This requires the team members to understand each other’s pace very well and to anticipate their motions correctly. It is definitely not a joke to manually row a 120ft long boat on the not-so-easy waters. Every year, during the harvest time of August and September, this boat race is conducted. This is one of the most-watched sports in the state. The state that is already colourful owing to the impending season of Onam, gets more colourful with beautiful decorations in and around Aleppey as the crowd gears up to watch the boats in action. These boat races are one of the most famous Kerala attractions, attended by a large number of foreign tourists.
Types of boats
While the Chundan Vallams can accommodate 110 people, the Churulan Vallam or Rice Boat can seat up to 45 people and Vaipu Vallam or Food Boat can seat up to 40 people. The Odi Boats are best used for travelling during the night hours. With all these kinds of boats for different purposes, the Boat Race brings with it a vibrant atmosphere all over the state. The inflow of tourists too is highest during this time of the year in the Aleppey district of Kerala.
About the Author
Gaurav Malhotra is now here to share his experience about Kerala attractions and boat race in Kerala
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