Snake Boat Race The pristine backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey are known for their serenity and tranquillity, which attracts many tourists throughout the year. But, once a year, the same backwaters turn into a war ground as it hosts the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race. It is one of Kerala's most prestigious and premier snake boat races.
During the race, which is held on the second Saturday of August, the most skilled rowers in Kerala and India compete in a fierce battle to become the ultimate champion. This year, in 2022, the event is scheduled to be held on the September 4th. For the rowers, winning the race is not just about taking home the trophy and being labelled champions, but it is more of a matter of pride and prestige.
The Snake boat race is held across different locations in Kerala between July and September, but none is more popular than the Nehru Trophy. This annual mega event attracts visitors, locals, and tourists from all over India; more than two lakh visitors line up on the shores of Punnamada lake to witness the race.
During the race season, the entire town of Alleppey comes to life as many ceremonial water processions are held here. From the massive Chunda Vallam (snake boats) to small country rafts, the expert and skilled rowers put on a magical show you cannot forget.
About the Race
While the Kerala boat race has been around for more than 100 years, the Nehru Trophy was first held much later. There is an exciting story about the origin of the race and why it got its current name. When the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, visited Alleppey in 1952, he was so enchanted and impressed by the majestic snake boasts that he ignored all the security protocols and jumped onto one of these boats.
Later in the same year, he donated a silver trophy in the shape of a snake boat as a gift to the state for the beautiful memories during his visit. So, the organisers of the race later named the race as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race in his honour and memory.
During the race, about 100 oarsmen engage in a fierce duel with the competitors. To keep the men's spirits, the boat's captain plays the drum on the boat and sings a traditional song, which sends everyone into a frenzy and spurs them to row even harder and faster.
About the Snake Boat
As a tourist, you may think boat racing is just another sporting event. But for the locals, especially those who participate in the race, i.e., the rowers, the race is a festival and a part of Kerala culture. The men worship their boats as a deity.
The locals call the snake boats 'Kundan Vallam.' There is only one Chundan Vallam for one village. This means that every boat participating in the race comes from a different town. The rowers are the finest ones from their village and represent their village in the race.
The boat is about 100-140 ft in length, the rear part of the boat rises to a height of about 20 ft, and the front has a long taper. Since the shape of the boats resembles a snake, the Britishers called them 'snake boats.'
Where to stay in Alleppey?
If you are visiting Alleppey to see the snake boat race in Kerala, you can book your stay at the Club Mahindra Arookutty, one of the best resorts in Alleppey. Here, you can enjoy a premium living experience and indulge in a range of exquisite experiences you cannot find anywhere. Also, the resort is a perfect location to travel to the race venue and retreat comfortably at the end of the day.
So, this September plan a travel to Kerala, and witness the magnificent race; it is a sight that you would not want to miss!
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