Aranmula
boat race is one the most popular events in Kerala. It is one event
where one can see the true meaning of friendly rivalry. In Kerala,
Aranmula boat race is celebrated on the last day of the 7-day long Onam
festival. The Aranmula boat race of Kerala is held at Sri Parthasarathy
temple where thousands of people assemble to cheer up for the
participants of the boat race. The snake boats are usually 100 feet long, that have a tapering end, which stands up like a scorpion's tail. It is capable of accommodating more than 100 people. There are usually around 100 oarsmen, 20 singers and 4 helmsmen on a single boat. The objective of the race is not winning a trophy. The boats have keep up with each other's speed and try to reach the finish line simultaneously. This promotes healthy attitude among people and everyone enjoys while cheering and watching the boatmen trying to keep up with each other. The boats are beautifully decorated and ornamented with red silk umbrellas. It is basically the time to enjoy and spread cheer.
