Aranmula, Kerala: The historic Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali 2026 concluded on Sunday with thrilling races on the Pamba River, as traditional Palliyodams competed before thousands of spectators in one of Kerala’s most celebrated cultural and sporting events.

The 132nd edition of the Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali brought together 51 Palliyodams in the A and B batches. The event once again combined the excitement of competitive boat racing with the centuries-old traditions associated with the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Onam and the sacred Vallasadya tradition.

Melukara retains A-Batch title

In the closely contested A-Batch final, Melukara Palliyodam emerged victorious, securing its second consecutive title. Koipram Palliyodam finished second, followed by Edasserimala East in third place and Mallappuzhasheri in fourth.

Melukara completed the final in 4:33.029, with the result decided after a closely fought finish.

Kottathoor-Kaithakkodi completes a hat-trick

The B-Batch produced another notable achievement, with Kottathoor-Kaithakkodi Palliyodam claiming the title for the third consecutive year.

Kottathoor-Kaithakkodi finished ahead of Vanmazhi, Thottappuzhassery and Mangalam to complete a hat-trick of victories. The narrow margins between the leading boats underlined the intensity of the competition on the Pamba.

The Chennithala Palliyodam received the R. Shankar Golden Trophy for its performance in singing and rowing, an award that recognises the traditional presentation and rhythm associated with the Aranmula boat race.

Vice-President inaugurates the historic event

The 2026 Vallamkali received added national attention with Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurating the event on the Pamba River.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President described Aranmula Vallamkali as a symbol of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, devotion and togetherness. He also highlighted the teamwork, discipline and sporting spirit displayed by the hundreds of oarsmen rowing the elaborately decorated Palliyodams in unison. 

Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and several Kerala ministers and public representatives also attended the event.

A major cultural attraction during the Onam season

Unlike conventional boat races where speed is the sole focus, the Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali is deeply connected with Kerala’s religious and cultural traditions. The decorated Palliyodams, traditional Vanchippattu, coordinated rowing and the rituals associated with the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple make the event a distinctive cultural experience.

The Pamba River once again became the centre of a spectacular gathering, with large crowds lining both banks to watch the Palliyodams move to the rhythm of traditional boat songs. The event continues to attract visitors from different parts of Kerala as well as tourists interested in experiencing Kerala’s traditional festivals and heritage.

The successful conclusion of Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali 2026 adds another colourful chapter to Kerala’s annual Onam-season celebrations and highlights the enduring appeal of the state’s traditional water festivals.