Champakulam Moolam Boat Race
This is counted as the oldest boat race of Kerala. The legend behind this race states that the king of Chempakasseri, Maharaja Devanarayana, as guided by his guru, ordered the construction of a Krishna Temple at Ambalappuzha. However, a little before the installation, it was found out that the idol was damaged. The idol was declared inauspicious for the temple and the king was hugely upset over the sudden development. The ministers of his court advised him to send some men to bring down the idol of Shree Krishna from the the Karikulam Temple in Kurichi. The king followed the advice. After successful completion of their work, the ministers, on their way back to halted at Champakulam to spend the night. In the morning, boats from the entire region sailed to escort the idol to the temple amidst colourful procession. The idol was installed on time and with much fanfare.
Today, the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race recreates the entire legend. Devotional and enthusiastic voices rent the air while the procession is on. The race itself is organized on river Pampa for various categories.
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