Alappuzha: Alappuzha is gearing up to host the 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race at the iconic Punnamada Lake on Saturday, with Keralam Chief Minister V D Satheesan set to inaugurate the state's most celebrated annual boat race festival.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar have been invited as chief guests for the event, which is expected to draw thousands of spectators from across the country.
According to reports, a total of 71 boats, including 22 snake boats (Chundan Vallams), have registered for this year's competition, promising another thrilling edition of the prestigious race.
The district administration has declared a holiday for all government and private offices in Alappuzha on Saturday in connection with the event. However, public examinations will be conducted as per the scheduled timetable.
In the previous edition held in 2025, Veeyapuram Chundan of Village Boat Club Kainakary emerged victorious and lifted the coveted Nehru Trophy.
(This story is compiled by Ranju Raj)
