Mark your calendars! The magnificent 124th Thazhathangadi boat race is set to electrify the serene waters of the Meenachil river in Kottayam this Saturday, September 27.
As a key event in the much-anticipated Champions Boat League (CBL), this regatta will showcase the prowess of the top nine snakeboats that distinguished themselves in the legendary Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR). This grand occasion is a collaborative effort, meticulously organized by the Kottayam West Club, in partnership with the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Kottayam municipality, and Thiruvarppu grama panchayat.
Preparations are in full swing to ensure a spectacular and smooth event. Organizers, led by the Kottayam municipality and Thiruvarppu panchayat, are diligently working to deepen the river near the finish line, guaranteeing optimal racing conditions. A spacious main pavilion, designed to comfortably accommodate 350 enthusiastic spectators, is also being prepared for prime viewing.
The celebrations begin a day earlier, on Friday, September 26, with a vibrant cultural procession. Starting at 3:30 PM from the Kottayam West Club at Arattupuzha, this colorful parade will set the festive mood for the main event.
The competition itself will be fierce, featuring a diverse array of traditional boats including the iconic chundan (snakeboats), alongside various grades of churulan, veppu, and iruttukuthi boats. To ensure fairness and excitement, modern race infrastructure such as a remote start system, cutting-edge photo-finish technology, and clear racecourse track markers are being implemented. Spectator facilities are also being enhanced on both banks of the river.
With a rich history stretching back to 1887, the Thazhathangadi boat race stands as one of Kerala’s most ancient and revered aquatic traditions. Its origins date back to the era of Diwan Peshkar T. Ramarao. After a temporary pause, the race, which was historically sponsored by the Travancore royalty and held annually until 1985, was proudly revived after a 12-year hiatus, continuing its legacy of thrilling competition and cultural pride.