Photo by: Gopu Ganesh : https://maps.google.com/maps/contrib/117836723280059908708
The Champakulam Boat Race, one of the most celebrated Kerala Boat Races, marked the grand opening of the 2025 boat racing season in Kerala with the vibrant Moolam Boat Race on the scenic Pampa River in Champakulam, Kuttanad, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. The event, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, saw Cheruthana Puthan Chundan, rowed by the New Cheruthana Boat Club, clinch the prestigious Raja Pramukhan Trophy in the snakeboat category, captivating thousands of spectators who gathered along the riverbanks.
A Thrilling Victory in the Snakeboat Category
The Champakulam Boat Race 2025 featured fierce competition in the snakeboat category, with five majestic snakeboats slicing through the waters of the Pampa River. Cheruthana Puthan Chundan emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional teamwork, strength, and precision to secure the top spot. The Champakulam Chundan, rowed by the Champakulam Boat Club, put up a strong fight but finished as the runner-up. Meanwhile, Ayaparampu Valiya Divanji Chundan, powered by the Niranom Chundan Welfare Association, claimed the third position, adding to the event’s electrifying atmosphere.
The snakeboats, known for their sleek design and synchronized rowing, are the highlight of Kerala Boat Races, drawing enthusiasts and tourists from across the state and beyond. The Moolam Boat Race, in particular, is renowned for its cultural and religious significance, symbolizing harmony and unity among communities.
Additional Categories and Community Participation
In addition to the snakeboat category, the Champakulam Boat Race featured competitions in the Veppu ‘A’ and Veppu ‘B’ grade categories, showcasing a variety of traditional boats and rowing styles. These races added diversity to the event, highlighting the rich heritage of Kerala Boat Races and the skill of local rowing clubs.
The event attracted a massive crowd, with locals and visitors lining the banks of the Pampa River to witness the thrilling spectacle. The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race is not only a sporting event but also a vibrant celebration of Kerala’s cultural legacy, bringing together people from different walks of life in a spirit of unity and festivity.
Inauguration and Cultural Significance
The Moolam Boat Race 2025 was inaugurated by Kodikunnil Suresh, MP, who emphasized the event’s role in preserving Kerala’s traditions and fostering community bonds. The race, deeply rooted in religious observances, is a testament to the state’s harmonious blend of culture, spirituality, and sport. The rhythmic chants of the rowers, the synchronized oar movements, and the vibrant energy of the crowd created an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The Road Ahead: Kerala’s Boat Race Season
The Champakulam Boat Race serves as the curtain-raiser for Kerala’s much-anticipated boat race season, which features a series of exhilarating races across the state. Following the Moolam Boat Race, several other events will take place in the coming months, showcasing the prowess of Kerala’s rowing communities. The highlight of the season will be the 71st Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR), scheduled for August 30, 2025, on the iconic Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. Known as the grandest of all Kerala Boat Races, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race attracts global attention and is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience Kerala’s vibrant boating culture.
Why the Champakulam Boat Race Matters
The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race holds a special place in the hearts of Keralites, as it is one of the oldest and most revered boat races in the state. Held on the Pampa River, the event is a celebration of Kerala’s backwater heritage and the spirit of teamwork. The snakeboats, often stretching over 100 feet and manned by dozens of rowers, are a sight to behold, embodying the strength and unity of the communities that compete.
For tourists and cultural enthusiasts, the Champakulam Boat Race offers a unique opportunity to witness Kerala’s rich traditions in action. The event’s lively atmosphere, coupled with the scenic beauty of Kuttanad’s backwaters, makes it a bucket-list experience for those exploring Kerala Boat Races.
Plan Your Visit to Kerala’s Boat Races
As the everybody’s talking about the Champakulam Boat Race, now’s the perfect time to plan your visit to Kerala’s upcoming boat races. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the Kerala Boat Races promise an unforgettable blend of adrenaline, culture, and natural beauty. Mark your calendars for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race on August 30, 2025, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Kerala’s backwater competitions.
Stay tuned for more updates on Kerala Boat Races and make sure to experience the thrill of the Champakulam Boat Race and other iconic events in the state’s boat racing calendar!