Why We Celebrate Snake Boat Race?

Every year, the green waters of Kerala become the setting for an amazing event. This isn’t just a race to see who can reach the end first. It’s a lively party full of history, teamwork, and a strong sense of community. So, let’s find out why this event is so important to Kerala.

When is the Snake Boat Race Held?

The Snake Boat Races, also known as Vallam Kali, typically take place in June or July, coinciding with the arrival of the monsoon season in Kerala.

How Did the Snake Boat Races Start?

The start of these boat races goes way back to the 1300s. At that time, Kerala was made up of many small kingdoms. The boats, which had a special design, were used for many things. They were part of big celebrations, but they were also used as war canoes when there were fights between the kingdoms. People think the races started from friendly (or maybe not so friendly!) competitions between these kingdoms.

Why Do We Celebrate the Snake Boat Races?

This festival is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of unity, teamwork, and Kerala’s rich maritime history. The event brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of community and shared heritage. There are several reasons why this event hold immense significance in Kerala:

• Honoring Maritime Heritage: As mentioned earlier, these races are a way to honor Kerala’s deep connection with water and its glorious maritime past. The majestic Snake Boats themselves are a marvel of traditional boat-building techniques, passed down through generations.
• Celebration of Teamwork: Watching this boat race is like seeing teamwork in action. Each boat, known as a Chundan Vallam, can hold up to 128 rowers. They all row together at the same time. The sound of the drums, the rowers moving together, and their shouts make a beautiful show of everyone working together. They train hard for many months for this big moment. Each rower gives it their all and counts on the help of their teammates. It’s a great example of what people can do when they work together.
• Community Spirit: These boat races are about more than just winning. They’re a big party for the whole community that brings people together. Different villages compete, but everyone is friendly and fair. The party mood is made even better with music and dance, yummy local food, and families and friends cheering for their favorite teams.

What is the Purpose of the Snake Boat Race Today?

While the historical significance remains strong, the boat races have become a big event that many people come to see. This helps Kerala’s economy and lets people from all over the world learn about this special event. There are many important races during the season, and one of the most famous is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. These races are shown on TV all over the country, which makes the boat races an important part of Kerala’s culture.

How Do You Celebrate the Snake Boat Races?

The best way to feel the exciting energy of the boat races is to go to one yourself! Here’s how you can be part of the fun:

• Plan Your Trip: The races are typically held between June and August. Popular tourist destinations like Alappuzha and Kottayam host renowned races. Be sure to check the specific dates beforehand, as they can vary slightly each year.
• Embrace the Ambiance: Pack comfortable clothing and a raincoat (it is monsoon season, after all!). Prepare to be enthralled by the rhythmic drumming, the energy of the cheering crowds, and the sight of these majestic vessels gliding through the water.
• Immerse Yourself in the Culture: Explore the vibrant stalls selling local delicacies and witness captivating cultural performances that often accompany the races.

Inspirational Snake Boat Race Quotes:

“The Snake Boat Races are a testament to the unwavering spirit of Kerala, where teamwork and tradition come together in a spectacular display of human potential.” –  Renowned travel writer, Maya Sharma

“The rhythmic drumming and synchronized rowing of the Snake Boat Races are a symphony of unity and power that leaves you breathless.” – Local Keralan resident, Amrita Menon

Snake Boat Race Activities for Kids:

If you’re traveling with kids, here are some fun activities to keep them engaged during this festival:

• Create a Snake Boat Flag: Design and decorate a colorful flag to cheer on your favorite team.
• Learn to Count in Malayalam: Malayalam is the local language spoken in Kerala. Learn how to count from 1 to 10 in Malayalam and impress the locals with your newfound skill!
• Make Paper Snake Boats: Origami (paper folding) is a great activity for kids. There are many easy-to-follow tutorials online for creating paper Snake Boats.
• Read a Children’s Book about Kerala: Get to know the culture by reading a kids’ book about Kerala that talks about these boat race.

TheseSnake Boat Races are like a colorful picture made up of history, teamwork, and a feeling of community. Whether you see them in person or celebrate from a distance, they give you a peek into what Kerala is really like. So, the next time you hear about these exciting races, remember the stories they tell and the spirit they show!