Champakkulam Boat Race: Kerala’s Season-Opening Vallamkali
Champakkulam Moolam Boat Race launches Kerala’s annual snake boat season on the Pamba River in Alappuzha’s Champakkulam village, typically mid-June to early July on Moolam day of Mithunam month. Revered as the oldest documented vallamkali with over 400 years of history, it honors the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple’s deity installation through synchronized Chundan boats rowed by 100+ oarsmen each, amid vanchipattu songs and drumbeats. Unlike competitive races, its ritual procession emphasizes harmony and cultural pride.
Traditional Significance
Legend ties the event to a historic temple feast transport rescued by local boats, evolving into an offering parade with nine participating vessels gliding in formation past cheering riverbanks lined with pookalam and stalls. Inaugurated formally in 1927 by Travancore’s Diwan and graced by the last Maharaja with a trophy, it blends devotion, athleticism, and community feasts, kickstarting Onam-linked races like Aranmula.
Race Highlights
- Snake Boats: Elongated Chundan Vallams slice waters in unison, helmed by expert karappan steersmen.
- Riverside Revelry: Vanchipattu folk chants, elathalam cymbals, and nagaswara fill the air.
- Culinary Spread: Post-race sadya feasts feature payasam and local delicacies