The 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race will take place on the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, Kerala on Saturday, with one of the state’s most celebrated sports and cultural traditions. Thousands of people are expected to converge there and watch, amid all the pomp and pageantry, the battle between Kerala’s famous traditional snake boats.
The annual event is known for its colourful atmosphere, powerful boat races and strong connection with Kerala’s local culture. The biggest attraction will be the fierce competition among the long narrow chundan vallams, popularly known as snake boats.
Crews of dozens of rowers will work in perfect rhythm as they race across the waters of Punnamada Lake.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race has a history dating back to 1952. The first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, had attended the boat race when he visited Kerala. Nehru was impressed by the fanfare of the boat race and it was named in his honour.
#Kerala: 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race to be held today at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. The prestigious annual event will witness fierce competition among traditional snake boats.#NehruTrophyBoatRace #SnakeBoatRace #KeralaTourism pic.twitter.com/ZPQnrl0S0i
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) August 22, 2026
The race has developed into a tourist and cultural attraction for Alappuzha as an institution. And speed is not the only issue. Months of preparation, intensive training and teamwork are conducted to train the boats and their crews for race day.
The sight of snake boats moving fast along the water, with traditional songs and the rhythmic sound of hundreds of oars hitting the water, is a unique sight. Different teams compete with the aim of winning the Nehru Trophy for their village and supporters and pride for their village.
Punnamada Lake is expected to become a festive centre as fans come out to support their favourite teams. Traditional performances, colourful decorations and a big crowd are expected to bring the atmosphere of the competition to life.
Kerala’s tourism industry is also at a premium in this event. Travelers from around India and abroad come to Alappuzha to see the boat race and the region’s famous backwaters.
As the 72nd edition begins, the focus will be on the water and skill, stamina and teamwork will be key to win. For the crews involved, the race is a months’ effort, and for the spectators, it is about one of Kerala’s most iconic traditions.
With snake boats set up and rowers ready to go, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2026 is on track for another great day at Punnamada Lake.
