Origin
In 1903, the Sree Narayana Guru arrived at Kumarakom to consecrate an idol of Sri Balasubrahmonia Swami at the Kumarakom. After much hesitation, he agreed to consecrate the idol since he was more interested in starting a school at the backward village. Eventually, both the school and the temple were started as per the wish of the Guru. The arrival of the Guru was a great day of celebration for the people of this undistinguished village by the Vembanad lake and they welcomed the sage into their midst, accompanying him in their boats in a procession. To commemorate this event, for the past few decades, a boat race, preceded by a boat procession, are held as part of the Sri Narayana Jayanthi celebrations at Kumarakom.Celebrations
The day begins with special pujas at the Kumaramangalom Temple. This is followed by Gurupuja and Gurupushpanjali at the Gurumandiram. Arts and sports competitions for children are held as part of the celebrations during the forenoon. The ''Kumarakom boat race'' commences. Prior to this, the grand procession of country boats carrying a portrait of Sree Narayana Guru and the ''thidampu'' from Kumaramangalom Temple is held up to Kottathodu, the venue of the boat race. The celebrations conclude with a public meeting and distribution of prizes for the winners.See also
* Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali * Champakulam Moolam Boat Race * Kallada Boat Race * Kandassankadavu Boat Race * Nehru Trophy Boat Race * President's Trophy Boat Race * Triprayar Boat Race *External links