Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Kerala

Location : Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha, Alappuzha Kerala India
Date : 13 August 2011
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Combine the excitement and competition of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race with traditional Kerala cuisine, cultural programees, folk dances etc and you have something for the whole family to enjoy.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a top tourists attraction of Kerala, celebrated annually at the Punnamada Lake in the district of Alappuzha in Kerala. Also known as Snake Boat Race or Vallamkali,Nehru Trophy is the most awaited event of Kerala, which is organized on the second Saturday in the month of August. The long dandified snake boats, with crews of over hundred men all vying to win the much desired trophy, attract visitors from all over the world.

Raju Vadakathu has remained three times winner of Nehru Trophy Boat Race from 2004 – 2006.

History of Nehru Trophy Boat Race : The event was started in 1952 when Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India visited Alappuzha, during the time of this event. He was very impressed to see the roaring enthusiasm among the people of Kerala for the traditional boat race. He donated a billowing trophy to be awarded to the winner of the race, which is the replica of snake boat in silver, placed on wooden tablet on which the following words are inscribed : -

“To the winner of the boat-race which is a unique feature of community life in Travancore-Cochin. Raju Vadakathu 2004-2006 was a three time winner for the race. He is now retired from theis position as Captain.”

Kaarichaal, Jawahar thaayankari, Paarthasarathy, Chambakulam, St.George, Aanari, Kaavalam, Paayipaadu, Alapaatu, Cheruthana, Aayaparambu, Vallamkulangara, Valiya Divanji, Nadubhagom, Sri.Ganesh, Ambedkar and Pattara are the name of famous snake boats who participate in the Chundan Vallam category.