Daily Archive

Kochi, May 7

The Venice of the east (Alappuzha) was all set to witness a massive traditional Keralian treat this weekend. The day was perfect for a team outing with pleasant atmosphere and cool breeze. All members from the Met Life and Axis Bank were raring to start off their Corporate Outing on a high note. They were enamoured by the picturesque sceneries and natural beauty of the rich Alappuzha, everyone was brimming with energy and vigour.

We all boarded two motor boats which had a cosy sitting area along with an upper deck for having a bird eye view of the vast backwaters. As all entered the boat, the serene surrounding was filled with buzz; all were excited and geared up to have a splash out there. As our boat started to move, all slowly got themselves comforted in the seating area, some decided to be in the lower deck while many choose to be on top.

After a soothing boat ride we all reached the Nehru Pavallion, everyone was excited and eagerly waiting for the traditional Snake Boat race to begin. The two boats which were competing against each other were Allappat and St. George. The long traditional Chundanvallams (snake boats) were ready to hit the water; both boats were having around 80 rowers sitting two in row along the length of the snake boat. All were dressed up in the traditional attire which added more spark to the occasion. As the team of percussionists stared playing those traditional Chendas, the whole atmosphere got vibrant. The musical rhythm with every beat boosted the enthusiasm and spirit among the rowers. It was a magical moment which everyone appreciated; this combination of traditional sport with a traditional musical treat was the highlight of the day.

Our exclusive event caught every one at surprise and many foreign tourists and locals gathered around the pavallion to witness this majestic Keralian treat. Finally the moment came for which everyone was desperate; the race began with a bang. First race was a warm up one which made every one jump off with enthusiasm and thrill. The rowers of both boats were muscling it down to make sure they remain ahead from their opponent. The cox and leader maintained the rhythm of rowing through songs, chants and exclamations.

The whole setting turned highly energetic and loud, all were shouting and supporting their favourites. Those long snake boats were steering through the backwaters like a real snake on stalk. Believe me, such scenes are really a rare thing to watch, while the action was on its climax, many spectators were busy capturing these sparkling moment in their lenses. This exclusive mini snake boat race soon seemed as if it’s the real snake boat race festival.

After the first warm up race, it was the time for the corporate team and our travel team to get into the real action. Every one made the most of this rare opportunity and battled it hard with professional rowers. This was a spectacular sight to watch, with young amateur rowers pushing hard with expert rowers to take their team home on a winning note. Soon it was sheer fun and thrill as the snake boat kept on steering past the backwaters of Allappuzha. This was really a new and lifetime experience for many trying to row in these long floating structures. At last it was Allappat snake boat who emerged as the winner drubbing their opponents St.George.

It was cheers and hugs all around, with the win for the Allappat team. The spectators too applauded the spirit of everyone which made the race colourful. Everyone at the end seemed as if they are lost of words after having experienced such an amazing and fun-filled day. The thrilling day came to an end at around 5pm and we began our return journey, with many unforgettable memories and amazing sceneries in our eyes.