Vallam Kali (Boat Races): A Must-See Cultural Tradition of Onam Festival in Kerala

Vallam Kali: The Thrilling Boat Races of Kerala During Onam Festival

The Onam festival in Kerala is a time of grandeur, joy, and traditional celebrations that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the state. Among the many vibrant events, Vallam Kali, or the traditional Kerala boat races, take center stage, captivating both locals and tourists alike. This annual event, held during Onam, is a spectacle of skill, strength, and unity. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of Vallam Kali and discover what makes it one of the most exciting cultural festivals in India.

What is Vallam Kali?

Vallam Kali, literally translated as "boat race" in Malayalam, is a thrilling and competitive race held in the backwaters of Kerala. It is a centuries-old tradition that takes place during the Onam festival, which is celebrated in August or September, depending on the Malayalam calendar. The races are a key component of Kerala’s vibrant festival, symbolizing the spirit of teamwork, unity, and cultural pride.

The most famous of these boat races is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held annually on the Punnappra Lake in Alappuzha, but boat races can be witnessed across Kerala’s serene backwaters and rivers.

The Significance of Vallam Kali in Onam Festival

Vallam Kali holds significant cultural value in Kerala’s heritage. The races are believed to have originated as a tribute to the legendary King Mahabali, whose reign is celebrated during Onam. The grand races not only honor the king but also celebrate the prosperous harvest season. The sight of long, colorful canoes racing through the shimmering waters, accompanied by enthusiastic cheers, is a visual spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Best Time to Visit for Vallam Kali

The best time to visit Kerala for the Vallam Kali boat races is during the Onam festival, which usually falls in the months of August or September. The festival lasts for 10 days, with the boat races typically taking place towards the end. Visitors can enjoy the peak of the festive spirit, witness traditional dance performances, feast on delicious Onam Sadya (traditional Kerala meal), and of course, cheer for the boats as they race to victory.

For those planning to experience the boat races, try to visit in the first two weeks of September when the weather is pleasant and the races are in full swing.

How to Reach Kerala for Vallam Kali

By Air: The nearest airport to Alappuzha (where the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held) is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 75 km away. The Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is another option, located about 150 km south of Alappuzha. Both airports are well-connected to major cities in India and abroad.

By Train: Alappuzha has a well-connected railway station, and you can take trains from Kochi, Kottayam, or Trivandrum to reach the town easily. The Ernakulam Junction is another major railway station located around 60 km from Alappuzha.

By Road: Kerala has a robust network of buses and well-maintained roads. You can easily hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the boat race venues. Public buses are also available from nearby cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Trivandrum.

Top FAQs about Vallam Kali

1. What is the significance of Vallam Kali? Vallam Kali, or Kerala boat races, is an integral part of the Onam festival and symbolizes unity, teamwork, and Kerala’s agricultural heritage. The races are held in honor of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala during Onam.

2. How many types of boats are used in Vallam Kali? There are different types of boats used in Vallam Kali, such as the Chundan Vallam (snake boats), Iruttukuthi, Veppu Vallam, and Kochu Vallam, each varying in size and design.

3. When is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held? The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held on the second Saturday of August every year. It is one of the most popular and prestigious boat races in Kerala, attracting tourists from all over the world.

4. Can I participate in the Vallam Kali? While the races themselves are competitive and usually feature local oarsmen, you can witness the action and even try a boat ride in some regions of Kerala. Many locations offer tourists the chance to take part in a serene backwater cruise.

5. What is the best place to watch Vallam Kali? The most famous location is Alappuzha (Alleppey) for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, but you can also watch boat races in places like Kottayam, Kumarakom, and Pathiramanal. Each location offers its own unique viewing experience.

Why Should You Attend Vallam Kali?

1. Cultural Experience: Vallam Kali is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of Kerala's rich culture and traditions.
2. Stunning Scenery: The boat races are held on Kerala’s serene backwaters, offering a visual treat.
3. Exciting Festivities: Onam celebrations include cultural performances, feasts, and various traditional activities that give you a deeper understanding of Kerala’s vibrant lifestyle.
4. Adrenaline Rush: The intense competition, combined with synchronized rowing, creates an exhilarating experience for spectators.

Conclusion

If you're a culture enthusiast, a lover of adventure, or simply looking to witness a truly unique spectacle, Vallam Kali during Onam should be on your bucket list. The boat races capture the spirit of Kerala, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Plan your trip to Kerala around Onam, and you’ll be treated to not just the thrill of the races but also the beauty of Kerala’s culture, people, and landscapes.

Make sure to plan ahead, secure your accommodations early, and get ready to enjoy the festivity of Vallam Kali!

KERALA BOAT RACES, BOAT RACES IN KERALA

Boat Races in Kerala

Kerala is a land of backwaters and beaches. A number of water sports are associated with the major lakes in Kerala. One of the major water sports in Kerala is boat racing, which is being organized by a number of social and religious organizations. These boat races have always been a part of the tradition of Kerala. There are instances in the history of Kerala when disputes between kings and chiefs were settled by boat races. These boat races are yet another reason that the tourists are attracted towards ‘God's Own Country’. A number of teams from different districts participate in boat races, which are organized annually. These races are organized specifically during temple festivals, which give this water sports an aura of religious sanctity. A few out of these races are ancient and have different myths and legends attached to them. The Snake boat races, commonly known by the natives as Chundanvallams, are the one which are most popular. These races are organized at different places in Kerala including Punnamada in Alappuzha.

Boat Races in Kerala

Champakulam Moolam Boat Race
Champakulam Moolam Boat Race is one of the ancient and most popular boat races in Kerala. The race is organized on the river Pampa at Champakulam, Alappuzha. The snake boats are called so because of the huge sterns of these boats that looks like a hood of a cobra raised in anger. The average length of the snake boats measures to hundred feet. The legend has that the Raja of Chempakasseri, Pooradam Thirunal Devanarayanan, built a temple at Ambalappuzha as suggested by the royal astrologers. It was discovered that the idol which was being placed at the temple was not fit. Therefore, a new idol was brought to this place from Karikulam Temple in Kurichi. As this idol was brought to the temple on a boat, the king declared that watersport will be organized on this particular date every year, to commemorate this event.

Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali
Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali or the Aranmula Boat Race is the oldest known boat race event which takes place in Kerala. The boat race takes place during the festival of Onam, which occurs during the Malayalam month Chingam (August - September). The boat race is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Arjuna. The boats which are used for racing are huge. They have four helmsmen, 100 rowers and 25 singers who sing Vanchipattu songs throughout the race. The traditional snake boats which are especially used here for racing are called ‘Palliyodams’ by the natives. Each boat is decorated with a golden lace. Along with these decorations every boat has a flag and two or three ornamental umbrellas.

Payippad Jalotsavam
Payippad Jalotsavam is one of the finest snake boat races organized all over the world. The boat race is organized in a span of three days on the lake Payippad, which is located 35km from the district of Alappuzha. There is a close relationship between the Payippad Jalotsavam and the Subramanya Swamy Temple situated at Haripad. The legend has that before the actual construction of Sree Ayyappan Temple, the people of Haripad village had a vision that they should install the idol of Subrahmanya which was to be found at the bottom of the Kayamkulam River. Interestingly, the idol was supposed to be placed under a whirlpool. The people found the idol at the exact location. Hence, they brought the idol to its present location on a boat. This festival is celebrated every year in commemoration of that event.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race
The annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race takes place on the backwaters of Punnamada in Alappuzha of Kerala. The race is a rowing competition, which takes place between numerous teams who participate in this event to contend for the Nehru Trophy. The history behind the event is that, a snake boat race was conducted when Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru visited this place. He was so impressed by the enthusiasm of the rowers that he awarded the Nehru Trophy to the winners. Since then the Nehru Trophy bears a silver model of a snake boat and is awarded to the winning team of the boat race.