Most of the boat races conducted in Kerala have been considered as local events, but several among them are set to attain a new stature thanks to an attempt to organise the race in the league format.
Kerala Boat Race League, a series of boat races under a common banner, will set the lakes in different parts of the State on fire from next year. The initiative, conceptualised by the Nehru Trophy Boat Race Committee, is aimed at expanding the horizons of the race and promises to be high adrenaline. The league would help elevate the competition to a higher level, akin to the premier league matches in sports. It is expected to bring in participation of professionally trained participants and boat clubs sponsored by well known entities and supported by the masses.
The series was initially proposed to be held this year and nine popular races were included, beginning with the Nehru Trophy boat race at Punnamada in Alappuzha and ending with the race at Kottappuram in Thrissur, and featuring Pulinkunnu, Kottayam (Kodimatha), Kayamkulam, Karuvatta, Mavelikara (Prayikkara), Kainakary, Ernakulam (Piravom) races. However, the idea had to be put on the back burner this year following demand from boat race organisers in other districts for inclusion in the league. The races that start during the monsoon season goes on for months at various destinations in the State. This year, the boat races started with the Champakulam race organised in Kuttanad earlier this month.
The boat races attract domestic and foreign tourists, but the organisers often find it difficult to present an attractive show for want of funds. Most of the races are conducted on a shoe-string budget with meagre government assistance. However, the expenses have been spiralling over the years. The snakeboats need year-long care while the rowers require prolonged practice sessions to be ready for a competent performance. One of the challenges faced by the organising committee is the lack of adequate infrastructure at the venues of boat races. Sheltered pavilions will have to be constructed at the destinations to attract masses. Fee for entry into the pavilions could be source of revenue but, as things stand now, these are all details that are yet to be worked out.
