Veeyapuram Chundan Claims Nehru Trophy in Thrilling Photo Finish

Quick Summary

• Event: veeyapuram Chundan (snakeboat) of Village Boat Club (VBC),Kainakary won the 71st Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR) held on Punnamada lake in alappuzha.
• Victory Details: Veeyapuram clocked 4:21.084 in a photo finish, followed by Nadubhagam Chundan (Punnamada Boat Club, second place at 4:21.782), Melpadom Chundan (third place at 4:21.933), and Niranom Chundan (fourth place at 4:22.035).
• Ancient Milestone: This marks VBC’s third NTBR win-previous triumphs were with Karichal Chundan in 1986 and 1987-after a gap of 38 years.
• Competition Context: Pallathuruthy Boat Club’s streak was broken, preventing them from achieving a historic double hat-trick after winning the past five editions between 2018-2024.
• Participation: A total of 75 boats competed across nine categories, including races for women boat clubs; winners were declared for each category.
• Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas inaugurated the event.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The dramatic victory by Veeyapuram Chundan not only signals an end to pallathuruthy Boat Club’s dominance but also highlights the evolving competition dynamics within Kerala’s iconic Nehru Trophy Boat Race-a tradition deeply ingrained in the state’s cultural heritage. The photo finish adds excitement to what is already considered “Olympics on water,” showcasing skill and athleticism despite challenging weather conditions.

With participation from diverse clubs across nine categories-including women’s competitions-the NTBR reflects growing inclusivity while boosting local tourism through meaningful spectator turnout. The achievement by village Boat Club bridges generations following thier long gap as previous wins, demonstrating how legacy clubs can reclaim prominence through perseverance and teamwork.

For Kerala, such events amplify state pride while playing a crucial role in preserving traditional art forms like Vallamkali racing amidst modernization pressures.

Read more: Published – August 30,2025