The boat race conducted on the banks of Pamba river in Aranmula, Pathinthitta district is considered to be a traditional festival of Kerala. Its a blissful sight for the audience watching Racers row the boat with traditional symbols wearing white dhothi, turban with decorative umbrella and flags, singing the songs of 8th century enthusiastically adding extra beauty and thrill to the whole scenario. It is believed that if it rains during the boat race held during Onam festive season, it brings prosperity to that place. Nowadays, in this changing world, there are a number of boating clubs that are competing and they not only participate in the race, but also bring successful competitors from outside the districts to achieve success. Sponsors from big companies, media and promotions make it a big hype and takes the competition to another level. Although there is a distinct fanbase for boating groups, village level Rowers are still struggling to cope with the ongoing competition, but they do keep up in continuous participation by maintaining their tradition and not giving up the same. No wonder this Kerala Boating Race is one such festival that all Indians would like to watch at least once in their life time. Purushoth appu [email protected] A TO Z INDIA ● JANUARY 2022 ● PAGE 10 email id: [email protected] Purushoth Appu The Popular Tradition of Kerala Boat Race: