Located in the heart of Kerala, Aranmula is much more than just a village. It is a vibrant tapestry of tradition and culture that draws visitors from all around the world. This lively part of Kerala is steeped in time-honoured practices and celebrations, offering a unique fusion of history and life. Here, you can immerse yourself in ancient customs, thrilling boat races, and grand feasts unlike any other. Aranmula welcomes you to experience its timeless story and become a part of its thriving heritage.
Regatta of Legends: The Aranmula Boat Race
The Aranmula Boat Race, commonly known as the “Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali,” began on July 23 this year, and devotees may offer sadya at the temple until October 2. It is a legendary event that represents the spirit of tradition, unity, and competitive abilities, with more than 30 regal snake boats, the ‘chunadan vallams’, gracefully crossing the calm waters of the Pamba River, creating an eye-catching show that captures both heart and soul.
These serpent boats, decked with silk and gold umbrellas, reflect the area’s ideal craftsmanship and ingrained traditions. Its origins can be traced back to a time when these boats were used in post-harvest water battles between opposing kingdoms. They evolved through time into receptacles of tradition and pride, signifying the togetherness and commitment of the nearest villages along the banks of the Pampa River.
The tale and folklore surrounding this regatta connect to the rescue of a pious Brahmin’s Thiruvona Thoni, the boat carrying offerings for the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple from the clutches of enemies. The gallant action of the locals in snake boats established the practice of snake boats escorting the sacred vessel, and this day is remembered as the temple’s foundation anniversary. The oarsmen, dressed in white mundu and turbans, chant Vanchipattu in 40 snake boats, each with four helmsmen, 100 rowers, and 25 singers.
The Enigmatic Aranmula Kannadi
Aside from the magnificence of the boat race and the vibrant energy, Aranmula is home to another treasure: the renowned metal mirror, ‘Aranmula Kannadi‘. These mirrors, built with extreme care, are anything but average-looking glasses; they reflect a centuries-old artistry. The unique composition of the Aranmula Kannadi distinguishes it from the others. Unlike traditional mirrors made of glass and silver nitrate, these mirrors are created from a highly kept metal-alloy recipe, an ancient secret held dear by the Vishwakarma society. Their durability differentiates them; they withstand shattering on impact, making them both practical and valuable. These mirrors are cherished as one of the “Ashtamangalyams,” or eight auspicious things that are considered vital for every family. Aranmula Kannadi is thought to bring good fortune to its possessor, making it a treasured heritage.
Feast for the Senses: Aranmula Sadya
Aranmula’s cultural bounty extends to its culinary tradition, with the Ashtami Rohini VallaSadya at its heart. Soon after, all of the “Palliyodams” participating in the ‘Uthrittathi Boat Race’ congregate at the temple, where they are greeted warmly and reverently by temple authorities and by 11 a.m., the lavish feast, perhaps one of the world’s largest vegetarian feasts, is put out and served on banana leaves as a divine tribute to the Lord. The Aranmula Sadya is known as one of India’s largest vegetarian feasts, with an array of amazing delicacies that fascinate guests. It is an unrivalled gastronomic experience, with up to 64 courses served in a single meal.
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The menu features a mouthwatering array of traditional treats, starting with Injpuli (ginger) and kadumanga (mango), followed by avial, sambar, pradhaman (a sweet delicacy), chips, banana, and much more. The feast, with more than 60 dishes, highlights the region’s culinary prowess, with a striking absence of onion and garlic in its preparations, representing the revered nature of this tribute. The Aranmula Sadya stands out not only by its abundance of food but also by the captivating ceremony that precedes its consumption. Vanchipattu, traditional boat songs that pay devotion to Lord Krishna, are used to request each dish on the lavish menu. As the feast progresses, a distinct blend of song and devotion fills the air. The visitors, led by tradition, sing Vanchipattu’s lovely lyrics. This harmonious event enhances the meal’s cultural richness by engaging everyone present in a shared experience of culture and spirituality.
Aranmula: Where Tradition and Splendor Converge
Aranmula is more than just a village, it’s a beautiful blend of past and present. It boasts of time-honoured practices and celebrations that continue to flourish even today, making it a unique destination that attracts visitors from all around the world. This bustling part of India brings ancient history to life, inviting you to immerse yourself in age-old customs, thrilling boat races, and the opulence of an unforgettable feast. If you’re planning a trip to Kerala, make sure to mark your calendars for a visit to Aranmula, where tradition thrives and invites you to be a part of its timeless story!
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