Part of: Kerala Gk set 30

Name a boat racing festival in onam in kerala

Category: Kerala Gk

Hint: Think about the traditional boat races associated with Onam in Kerala.

Correct Answer: A) Vallamkali

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Vallamkali, also known as the snake boat race, is a significant cultural event in Kerala, India, particularly during the Onam festival. Onam is a major harvest festival celebrated in the state, and Vallamkali is one of the most prominent traditions associated with it. The festival typically falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam, which corresponds to August or September in the Gregorian calendar.

The Vallamkali involves long, narrow boats called chundan vallams, which are often over 100 feet in length and can carry up to 100 rowers. These boats are intricately decorated and are a symbol of the rich maritime history and cultural heritage of Kerala. The races are held on the backwaters of Kerala, particularly in the rivers and canals of Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Kollam districts.

The boats are named after various deities and are considered sacred. The rowers, known as Vallamkallu, are highly skilled and trained for months to participate in these races. The event is not just a competition but also a celebration of community spirit and cultural pride. The races are accompanied by traditional music, songs, and dances, adding to the festive atmosphere.

While Vallamkali is the correct answer, it is important to understand why the other options are incorrect. Zorbing is a recreational activity that involves rolling down a hill in a large inflatable ball, which is not related to the cultural traditions of Kerala or the Onam festival. Gatka, on the other hand, is a form of martial arts from the Punjab region in northern India and has no connection to Kerala or Onam.

Therefore, Vallamkali is the correct answer as it is a well-known and significant boat racing festival associated with the Onam celebrations in Kerala.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This is the correct answer. Vallamkali is a traditional boat race held in Kerala during the Onam festival. It is a significant cultural event that involves long snake boats called chundan vallams.
  • Option B: This is incorrect. Zorbing is a recreational activity involving a large inflatable ball and is not related to the Onam festival or Kerala's cultural traditions.
  • Option C: This is incorrect. Gatka is a form of martial arts from the Punjab region and is not associated with Kerala or the Onam festival.
  • Option D: This is incorrect. Vallamkali is a well-known boat racing festival in Kerala during Onam, so "None of the above" is not the correct answer.

Mnemonic: V for Vallamkali, V for Victory in boat races

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