Alappuzha (Keralam) [India], August 22 : The 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan and Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar on Saturday at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is one of Keralam's most celebrated cultural and sporting traditions, drawing roots back to 1952.
Other than DK Shivakumar, Alappuzha MP KC Venugopal and other local leaders were present on the occasion.
A total of 71 boats, including 22 iconic snake boats (Chundan Vallam), are competing across various categories at the event.
Speaking to reporters on the occasion, CM DK Shivakumar said, "I'm very happy and thrilled to be here on this important occasion, on this Onam festival. It is a great event and a source of pride for the country."
Earlier, the district administration said all arrangements for the boat race have been completed. Elaborate security, traffic and crowd-management arrangements have been put in place for the event, which attracts thousands of spectators to Punnamada every year.
Collector Shaji V Nair appealed to the public and all stakeholders to extend their cooperation and support for the smooth and successful conduct of the event.
It takes place annually on the second Saturday of August (or rescheduled dates in specific years) on Punnamada Lake, showcasing Kerala's maritime heritage, teamwork, and synchronised rowing precision.