The waters of Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha witnessed a finish worthy of Kerala’s most celebrated sporting spectacle as Aromal Chundan clinched the 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race in a nail-biting contest.

Making its mark on debut, Aromal Chundan crossed the finish line in 4 minutes, 23 seconds and 328 milliseconds, edging past seasoned rival Nadubhagam Chundan, which clocked 4 minutes, 23 seconds and 448 milliseconds.

That is a difference of just 12 milliseconds.

Veeyapuram Chundan secured third place with a timing of 4 minutes, 23 seconds and 770 milliseconds, making the final moments of the race a spectacular three-way battle.

71 Boats, One Electrifying Battle

The high-octane event brought together 71 boats, including 22 traditional chundan valloms, competing across different categories. But it was the snake boat race that stole the show.

Stretching more than 100 feet and traditionally powered by teams of over a hundred oarsmen, the majestic chundan valloms sliced through the lake as rowers moved in astonishing synchronization. Rhythmic chants, thunderous drumbeats and roaring crowds transformed the peaceful Alappuzha backwaters into an arena of raw sporting energy.

Thousands of spectators, including visitors from across India and abroad, gathered along the lakefront to experience the spectacle. A local holiday was also declared across government offices and educational institutions in Alappuzha district, underlining the race’s deep connection with the community.

A Trophy Steeped in History

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is far more than a sporting contest. The annual regatta traces its origins to 1952, when India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, visited Kerala and was captivated by a traditional snake boat race.

So impressed was Nehru by the spectacle that he donated a silver trophy, which became the inspiration for the event’s name. Over the decades, the race has grown into one of Kerala’s most iconic cultural celebrations.

Where Sport Meets Tradition

For the communities of Kuttanad, the Nehru Trophy is a matter of immense pride. Months of preparation, teamwork and training culminate in those few exhilarating minutes on the water.

For visitors, meanwhile, it offers a spectacular glimpse into Kerala’s living heritage—where sport, tradition, music and community spirit come together against the stunning backdrop of the backwaters.

And this year, Aromal Chundan added a thrilling new chapter, proving that sometimes, history can be decided in just a handful of milliseconds.