Alappuzha: Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha came alive on Saturday as the 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race transformed Kerala’s tranquil backwaters into a spectacular arena of speed, tradition and sporting passion.
The highlight of the regatta began at 3.30 p.m. with the much-awaited snake boat race, drawing thousands of spectators to the banks of Punnamada Lake.
71 Boats Take Part In Iconic Race
A total of 71 boats, including 22 traditional chundan vallams, are participating in this year’s regatta.
The snake boat race remains the biggest attraction, with the long and sleek boats racing across a roughly 1,100-metre track. More than 100 oarsmen sit aboard each boat, powering them forward with synchronised strokes.
For the rowers, the race demands exceptional stamina, coordination and teamwork, while spectators watch the closely fought contest from the riverbanks, houseboats and other vantage points.
The roar of thousands of spectators, traditional drumbeats and the rhythmic sound of hundreds of oars hitting the water together create the unique atmosphere associated with the Nehru Trophy.
Race Traces Its Roots To 1952
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race dates back to 1952, when then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru visited Kerala.
During his visit, Nehru travelled by boat to Alappuzha, where a spontaneous boat race was organised in his honour. He was reportedly so impressed by the spectacle that he jumped into one of the winning boats and joined the celebrations.
Following the visit, Nehru donated a silver trophy shaped like a snake boat. The trophy became the prize for the annual competition, which subsequently came to be known as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
Over the decades, the event has grown into one of Kerala’s most prominent traditional sporting celebrations.
Thousands Gather In Alappuzha
The latest edition was inaugurated by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, with Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat among the chief guests.
The Alappuzha district administration declared a holiday for educational institutions and government offices, while elaborate traffic arrangements and restrictions were put in place as large crowds travelled to the venue.
As the boats took to the water, the ceremonial proceedings gave way to the main attraction — the fiercely competitive snake boat races at Punnamada.