The 68th Nehru Trophy Boat Race was a spectacular display of Kerala\“s rich cultural heritage and traditional boat racing. The event featured magnificent snake boats known as Chundan Vallams, which are locally crafted using specific types of wood native to Kerala. These boats are typically made from Anjili wood and Aini wood, which are known for their durability and buoyancy.
Local artisans use traditional techniques passed down through generations to construct these impressive vessels. The winning team used paddles made from coconut wood, another locally sourced material that is lightweight yet strong. The race also showcased various other Kerala products like coir ropes for binding and natural dyes extracted from local plants for decorating the boats.
Traditional Kerala products played a significant role in the event, with participants using handwoven cotton fabrics for their uniforms and organic oils for maintaining the wooden boats. The victory celebration featured authentic Kerala cuisine including locally grown spices like black pepper, cardamom, and turmeric, all of which are major agricultural products of the region. |
