Alappuzha: The Alappuzha district is bustling with activity as the heats of Nehru Trophy boat race began amid a huge turnout of crowds cheering for the teams. 

As CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s helicopter could not land due to weather conditions, the race was flagged off by Minister Saji Cheriyan. 

Reportedly, a total of 72 boats are participating in this historic race at the Punnamada lake. Using photo-start and finish technology, the competitive spirit is at an all-time high this year. 

Every year, people gather in large numbers to watch nearly 100 ft long boats compete against each other to the tune of old boat songs. Punnamada Lake is the location for the race, where the contestants line up to battle it out. 

The story behind this water regatta getting its name goes back to the visit of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952. He was so enchanted by the sight of the majestic snake boats that he leaped onto one of the snake boats himself, ignoring his security cover. 

Later on in the year, he donated a silver trophy in the form of a snake boat as a gift for the memories of the time he spent there. The race went on to be named the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. 

Inputs from ANI