Tracing the legacy of Vallam Kali in Kerala

Kerala’s backwaters turned into a spectacle as snake boats raced in the traditional Vallam Kali.

Transcript

00:00Splashing oars, roaring crowds, soaring spirits.

00:03This is Vallam Kalli, Kerala's legendary snake boat race.

00:07It's not just a contest of speed, it's a burst of colour, a cultural celebration and

00:11a centuries-old tradition that still binds communities together.

00:15The word Vallam means boat and Kalli means play.

00:18These races began over 400 years ago under the kings of Allapura.

00:22Back then, the long slender boats known as Chandan Vallams were built for naval battles.

00:26Over time, they transformed into ceremonial racing boats fiercely preserved by villages.

00:31Each snake boat stretches nearly 120 feet, carrying more than 100 rowers.

00:35The race's prow resembles a serpent's hood, earning it the name.

00:38Crafted from wild jackfruit wood, these boats move in perfect rhythm, guided by a chief horseman.

00:44The synchrony of the rowers matched to the pulse of traditional Vanchi Pattu songs is like

00:48a heartbeat on water.

00:49The most famous race unfolds every August at Punna Mada Lake, Allapura.

00:53It's shot to fame in 1952 when Prime Minister Nehru, captivated by the spectacle, donated

00:58a silver trophy.

00:59Another highlight is the Aranmulla Uttararathi boat race, held during Onam as an offering to

01:04Lord Partha Sarthi.

01:05Here, rituals and devotion matter more than competition.

01:09And during Onam itself, Vallam Kalli becomes part of Kerala's Grand Harvest Festival, a celebration

01:13of joy, thanksgiving and unity.

01:15Today, it's an international attraction.

01:18They flock to Kerala's backwaters to witness the boats slicing through water, rowers chanting

01:23and crowds erupting in cheer.

01:25But Vallam Kalli is more than a sport.

01:27It's pride, tradition and the spirit of Kerala racing together as one.