Every year, on the second Saturday of August, the serene Punnamda Lake near Alappuzha in Kerala transforms into a hub of excitement as it hosts the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. This event, renowned for its fierce competition and vibrant atmosphere, attracts an estimated 200,000 spectators, including many international tourists. For the villages of Kuttanad, a victory in this prestigious race is a source of pride and celebration for months.

The highlight of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the thrilling competition between the snake boats, known locally as chundanvallams. These impressive vessels, over 100 feet long with raised prows, are a sight to behold. The name "snake boat" was given by colonial rulers, who likened them to a native boat in Norway, despite the minimal resemblance. The chundanvallams' sleek, elongated bodies and rhythmic movements make them appear like serpents gliding through the water.

The origins of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race date back to the visit of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, to Alappuzha in 1952. Nehru traveled from Kottayam to Alappuzha through the waterlogged region of Kuttanad, accompanied by a spectacular pageant of boats. The first impromptu race was held in his honor, with Nadubhagam Chundan emerging victorious. Enthralled by the event, Nehru leaped into the winning boat, abandoning security protocols.

Upon returning to Delhi, Nehru donated a silver trophy shaped like a snake boat, with an inscription commemorating the community spirit of Travancore-Cochin. This trophy, known as the Nehru Trophy, is awarded annually in his memory.

The first race was a grand spectacle, with elaborate preparations and a festive atmosphere. Eight snake boats lined up for the race, creating a mesmerizing view with their synchronized movements and rhythmic rowing. The race was inaugurated with great fanfare, including a ceremonial gun salute marking Nehru's age. Nehru watched the race with his grandchildren, his excitement palpable as he cheered for the participants. The crowd erupted in applause and cheers as the boats approached the finish line. Nadubhagam Chundan crossed the finish line first, securing the inaugural Nehru Trophy. Nehru personally awarded the silver trophy to the winning team, further cementing the race's significance.

Since its inception, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race has grown in scale and popularity. Initially held at various locations, the race found a permanent home in Punnamada Lake in 1955. The racecourse, spanning approximately 1,370 meters, is divided into multiple tracks, each marked with bamboo poles. The spectacle begins with a colorful procession of snake boats, followed by smaller race boats such as churulan, veppu, and oadi.

The oarsmen row in unison to the rhythm of vanchipattu, traditional boat songs, creating a mesmerizing display of strength and coordination. The lake is adorned with beaded umbrellas, gilded sterns, and floats showcasing Kerala's rich cultural heritage, including performances of kathakali, theyyam, panchavadyam, and padayani.

The preparations for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race foster a sense of communal harmony. Villagers take pride in their participation, with oarsmen selected for their skill and dedication. The community supports them with mass feasts, where people from different castes and religions dine together, symbolizing unity. Historically, the race has promoted social integration, with everyone from caste Hindus to Scheduled Castes, Christians, and Muslims participating and celebrating together. This spirit of inclusiveness continues to define the race, making it a true festival of the people of Kuttanad.

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of Kerala's cultural heritage and communal harmony. Held annually on the picturesque Punnamada Lake, it draws thousands of spectators, both local and international, who come to witness this unique spectacle. With its vibrant pageantry, thrilling races, and deep-rooted traditions, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race remains one of Kerala's most cherished events, symbolizing the spirit and unity of its people.