Melukara and Kottathoor Kaithakkodi win Aranmula Uthrittathi Boat Race

Palliyodom regatta as part of the annual Uthrittathi festival in the Pampa river in Aranmula on Sunday. | Photo Credit: LEJU KAMAL The waters of the Pampa river transformed into a shimmering stage of tradition, devotion, and raw rhythmic energy on Sunday as the Aranmula Uthrittathi Boat Race reached its climax. Beyond a mere race of speed, the sacred water regatta reaffirmed its status as a grand celebration of heritage, where the synchronised dip of hundreds of wooden oars echoed the collective pulse of the crowd lined along the riverbanks.In the highly anticipated A-Batch final, the Melukara Palliyodam emerged victorious after a closely fought contest. The Koipram Palliyodam finished in second place, securing the runner-up position. The Edasserimala East Palliyodam crossed the finish line to take third place, while the Mallappuzhasheri Palliyodam came in fourth.Continuing their unchallenged dominance in the B-Batch without any upsets, the Kottathoor-Kaithakkodi Palliyodam achieved a rare feat. Following their victories in 2024 and 2025, they finished first once again in 2026, securing a hat-trick with their third consecutive win. The Vanmazhi Palliyodam finished behind them in second place. The Thottappuzhassery Palliyodam secured the third position while the Mangalam Palliyodam took the fourth place.The organisers announced the final results following a precise laser inspection after a photo-finish ending separated by mere seconds.The water festival was inaugurated by Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan while Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar was the chief guest. Palliyoda Seva Sangham president K.V. Sambasivan presided over the function that was attended by Ministers Ramesh Chennithala, Mons Joseph, Roji M. John, and MLA Abin Varkey. After the trophy distribution, residents celebrated along the banks with traditional chants and Vanchippattu. Published - August 30, 2026 10:03 pm IST