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The Traditional Boat Race
in Kerala

Uttara Gangopadhyay

Boat races in Kerala trace their history hundreds
of years back when the region was part of the
royal state of Travancore. The network of canals
necessitated the use of different kinds of boats and
it is not surprising that people have woven the
watery landscape into their daily lives and festivals.
July marks the beginning of the race season that
continues up to Onam, which could fall as late as
August-September. The boats can be over
50 m. long and can accommodate over 100 people.
The prow of the boat curves like the hood of a
snake and hence the name, snake boat or chundan
vallam. Preparations begin days before the major
race and participants (both men and women) are
accompanied by vanchipattu singers who help the
rowers maintain the rhythm with their songs and
beats.

Емил Попов
Гвалиор, Индия