Vallomkali Aranmula : http://www.neelaearth.com
Here are some of the most exhilarating moments from one of Kerala's most popular water fiestas. The Aranmula vallomkali, held recently on 29th August, on the Aranmula river in Pathanamthitta district, is part of the Onam celebrations.
This water regatta, unlike the other boat races of Kerala, is not a contest but a retracing of a ritualistic journey undertaken to the Aranmula temple in days gone by.
Traditionally, the Thiruvonasadya (the grand Onam feast) was the ritual offering to the deity of the temple. Vegetables, cereals and other provisions for this elaborate feast were brought to the temple in a procession of snake boats. The vallom (canoe) carrying the offerings was called the Thiruvonachilavuthoni (literally, the canoe that carries the offerings for the Thiruvonasadya). Today, the Aranmula Vallomkali, held on the Uthruttathi asterism (the deity's birthday) of the month of Chingam, is conducted along the route traced centuries ago.
Thousands of excited people throng the waterside to cheer the majestic crafts that slice through the waters with hundreds of oarsmen roaring in rhythm to the boatmans songs.
The oldest boat races still conducted with much enthusiam are the Champakulam vallomkali and the Payippadu vallomkali held in Alappuzha district. The excitement growing social participation, in these water fiestas have led to similiar sporting events being organised at various other locations in the state. Among these are the Nehru Trophy Boat Race which is today a national event, the Neerettupuram vallomkali held on the river Pamba and the Pulinkunnu vallomkali on the Pulinkunnu river.
Getting there :
Aranmula is about 10 km from Chengannur on Thiruvananthapuram - Kottayam route.
Nearest railway station : Chengannur.
Nearest airport : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 130 km towards south.
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