The story of Aranmula Boat Race goes that a Brahmin once pledged to feed one pilgrim a day. Lord Shree Krishna, pleased by his dedication, appeared himself one day. Overwhelmed, the Brahmin offered 51 measures of rice and all the provisions of Thiruvona Sadya (Onam afternoon feast) to be held at the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. However, enemies from other village became aware of it and tried to destroy the provisions. At this point of time, the Brahmin's own villagers came to his rescue on snake boats and assisted him to carry his offering on large snake boats, palliyodam.
The Aranmula Boat Race is a mark of respect to this legend that symbolises devotion, loyalty as well as bravery. The event is held for two days wherein the first day sees a huge effigy of Lord Krishna being taken out in a colourful procession. The next day, the oarsmen and singers form groups and participate in the actual race in the afternoon.
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