The Nehru Trophy Boat Race

By:


Boat race forms an integral part of Onam, one of the most elaborately celebrated festivals of Kerala. Vallamkali or boat game can never be departed from the festival and the celebration mood of the people. There are many boat races conducted under different names and the most famous among the races is the Nehru Trophy boat race. It is conducted every year on the second Saturday of August, in the Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha. Many chundans or snake boats take part in this race every year. The boat is 100 to 120 metre long made of wood. Over 100 to 110 rowers move the snake boat which surges the excitement in the audience. Vanjipattu or boat song also usually accompanies the race. For those who take part in the race, the participation means a lot rather than the competition
This boat race named after the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, has a history which every Malayali cherishes. The history is associated with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehrus visit to Alappuzha. During his visit he travelled from Kottayam to Alappuzha on a boat through Kuttanad. A number of boats accompanied him during the journey. In memory of this the Nehru Trophy boat race is conducted since 1952. Nadumbhagam chundan won the trophy for the first time and ever since this competition means much more than competition. Many cultural events also take place as a part of Nehru Trophy boat race.;
The competition begins with a procession of snake boats. Even the smaller varieties of boats take part in various events of the competition. The winners of the snake boat competition get a silver trophy signed by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This competition marks the community life of the people in the Travancore and Cochin region.
The preparations for the boat race start a month in advance. Seating arrangements are made to accommodate the thousands of audience that arrive to witness this great event every year. A number of foreign tourists are also attracted to Alleppey during this time to watch the beautiful procession of snake boats. Excellent organisation is a major feature of this snake boat competition.
Many hotels and resorts in and around prepare to welcome the tourists weeks before the competition.These resorts and hotels are known for their hospitality and comfortable accommodation. Usually those who wish to stay in Alleppey during Nehru Trophy boat race will have to book rooms in resorts and hotels in advance

About the Author:
Find the best place to stay Cochin, Mermaid Hotel is one of the best Hotels in Cochin. Come and explore the beauty of Kerala and stay in Star hotels in Cochin which suits your pocket.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


Tags: ,

|

Loading...
Related....
Videos...

Recent Travel-and-Leisure Articles

Comments

Still can't find what you are looking for? Search for it!

Loading

Site Navigation:

Copyright 2005-2011 ArticleSnatch, LLC - All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.