Boat races are deeply ingrained in Kerala’s cultural tapestry, and among these aquatic extravaganzas, the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race shines as a jewel in the crown of “God’s Own Country.” As the oldest snake boat race in Kerala, it holds the prestigious honor of inaugurating the annual boat race season. Nestled against the scenic backdrop of the Pampa River, the charming village of Champakkulam in the Alappuzha district hosts this remarkable event. Traditionally slated for June or July, it draws a massive throng of spectators.
The sight of colossal boats slicing through the waters, accompanied by age-old boat songs, sets the stage for an exhilarating atmosphere. This event, renowned for its grandeur, kickstarts a fervent boat racing season that will sweep across the state in the following months.
A Glimpse into History of Champakkulam Boat Race
The Champakkulam Snake Boat Race stands as one of Kerala’s most ancient vallam kali, or snake boat races, second in age only to the Aranmula Boat Race in the southern part of India. This captivating race unfolds on the serene waters of the River Pamba, precisely on Moolam day, according to the Malayalam Era M.E, during the Malayalam month of Midhunam. This auspicious date coincides with the installation of the deity at the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, adding an extra layer of significance to the event.
A Tale of Divine Intervention
The race’s origins are intertwined with a tale of divine intervention. It is said that the Raja of Chempakasseri, Pooradam Thirunal Devanarayanan, commissioned the construction of a temple in Ambalappuzha based on the advice of royal astrologers. However, fate had other plans, and just before the deity’s installation – Lord Krishna – it was foretold that the chosen idol bore inauspiciousness.
With the need to find a suitable replacement pressing, the temple priests embarked on a quest to locate an alternative idol of Lord Krishna. Their quest led them to the Karinkulam temple in Kurichi, where they discovered a sacred idol believed to have been personally bestowed upon Arjuna by Lord Krishna himself. It was this sanctified idol that became the chosen one. With the sacred idol in their possession, the Raja’s emissaries set sail by boat on their return journey. As night descended, they sought refuge in the home of Mappilassery Itty Thommen, a devout Christian residing in Champakulam village.
Unity and Celebration Champakkulam Boat Race
Itty Thommen and his family extended a warm and honorable welcome to the travelers and the revered idol. The following day, the Raja and his entourage, accompanied by a multitude of people, arrived at Mappilassery. Elaborate ceremonies and rituals were conducted to consecrate the deity. Itty Thommen and his associates joined the flotilla en route to Ambalapuzha, where the idol was formally consecrated with great pomp and grandeur. Along the way, the people of Champakulam and neighboring regions, as well as the clergy and laity of the Champakulam Kalloorkadu Church, paid their respects to the Raja and the idol.
These events unfolded in the year 1545 A.D. Touched by the affection and loyalty of his Christian subjects, the Raja proclaimed the establishment of an annual water carnival at Champakulam. This grand celebration would henceforth take place on Moolam day during the Malayalam month of Mithunam, marking the inception of the Champakulam Snake Boat Race and its accompanying festivities, a tradition that endures to this day.
Preservation of Tradition of Champakkulam Boat RaceM
In 1613 A.D., sixty-three years after the idol had found sanctuary at Mappilassery, the ancestral house was undergoing renovation. The old structure was being replaced by a new one. The successor of Raja Devanarayanan learned of this development and promptly conveyed instructions to Kunhi Thommen, Itty Thommen’s son. The area housing the idol, considered a sacred place or devasthanam, was to be specially designated solely for worship. In keeping with Hindu customs, menstruating women were prohibited from entering this sacred space. The family was entrusted with a unique lamp crafted from precious metals, perpetually lit as an eternal flame. Special privileges, including land grants and coconut groves to supply oil for the lamp, were bestowed upon the family.
Living Tradition of Champakkulam Boat Race
These practices endure to this day. The lamp remains perpetually aglow, symbolizing the enduring tradition. Annually, priests and representatives from the temple visit the house on Moolam day, bearing gifts and prasadam for the head of the household, an occasion known as the Moolakazcha. It is believed that on Moolam Day, Lord Krishna chooses to reside not in the Temple but at Mappilassery House. With utmost reverence, Temple delegates enter the prayer room, which houses Christian icons like the cross, statues of Jesus, and Mary, alongside the prominent Vazhakoombu Vilakku lamp. The temple representatives venerate the lamp before being treated to a sumptuous feast by the family. Only after these ceremonies conclude does the renowned Champakulam Snake Boat Race commence.
Frequently Asked Questions on Champakkulam Boat Race
What is the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race?
The Champakkulam Snake Boat Race is one of Kerala’s oldest and most iconic boat races, celebrated annually in the village of Champakkulam.
When does the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race take place?
Traditionally, the race is scheduled for June or July each year, marking the beginning of the boat race season in Kerala.
Where is Champakkulam located?
Champakkulam is a picturesque village situated along the banks of the Pampa River in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India.
What makes the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race unique?
This race is renowned for its grandeur and the use of colossal snake boats, some measuring up to 100 feet in length, making it a truly unique and thrilling spectacle.
How old is the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race?
The race has a rich history dating back centuries and is considered one of the oldest snake boat races in Kerala.
Is there a religious significance to the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race?
Yes, the race coincides with Moolam day during the Malayalam month of Midhunam, which aligns with the installation of the deity at the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple.
Can tourists attend the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race?
Absolutely! The race attracts a massive gathering of spectators and is a must-attend event for tourists visiting Kerala during the season.
What is the legend associated with the race’s origin?
Legend has it that the chosen idol for a temple’s installation was deemed inauspicious, leading to the search for a replacement idol, which was found at the Karinkulam temple in Kurichi.
How does the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race contribute to community bonding?
The race brings together villagers from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and community spirit.
Are there any unique traditions associated with the Champakkulam Snake Boat Race?
Yes, the host family of the idol is entrusted with maintaining a perpetually burning lamp and receives annual visits from temple representatives, marking a unique blend of Hindu and Christian traditions.
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