This is a contextual translation of the famous Kerala Boat race song; not a music score. Its 'refrain' dates back to the very origin of the boat races in Kerala and resonates deep in the hearts and minds of the people of the region. Many types of boats in unique form, size, and shape, representing the hundreds of villages in the lowlands of Kuttanadu participate in the races in spectacular and authentic folk festival settings. The boats are paddled with long oars. They are built and crafted with certain selected species of wood from the thickly growing, mature tropical trees, and according to the marine engineering tenets laid out from the Vedic times by Viswa Karma, the Lord of Architecture.
The boat races are not simply a series of competitions. They carry with them a rich and ancient history of wars, conflicts between Maharajah's kingdoms; many true stories of adventures, and heroism shown in marine warfare. The races are conducted amidst festivities, social gatherings, showcasing unique art forms of the coastal state of Keralam which since the ancient past has attracted curiosity and interest from far and wide. The facts and fables lured spice -traders, conquerors, colonists, and lately many tourists interested in ecotourism, Ayurvedic treatments, and unique cultural art forms.
Everyone living in the region immediately recognizes and memorizes the song they heard since childhood as well as its characteristic rhythms while enjoying the vibes, and excitement that brings them together as one community in the spirited seasonal competitions!. The story, KuchelaVrutham, and the origin of Vanchippatt.
To learn more about the ecosystems and race regattas please read the book: "The Biggest Regatta - Vallam Kali" on: https://www.desi-paradesi-diaspora.net/books