Kannur: The picturesque Mangalassery river of Kannur, also known as the Pattuvam River, is all set to host the sixth edition of 'Malabar Jalothsavam', one of the major boat races of North Kerala. The event, scheduled for on October 29, will see the participation of as many as 35 boat race teams including women groups from Kannur and Kasargod districts, in various categories. Apart from the boat race, flyboard performances, jala sinkarimelam, kayaking, fusion sinkarimelam with light and sound show will also be organised as part of the one-day event, informed organisers.
The 'churulan' race category, which has the participation of boats with bows rising at both ends carrying up to 30 rowers, is one of the most exciting ones in the event. It will be conducted in three sub-categories, 25-rower, 15-rower and women rower segments. 14 teams will participate in the first segment while 15 and 6 groups will contest in the second and third, respectively. The fest, held since 2013, is being conducted by the State Tourism Department with the support of District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) and Mangalassery Navodaya Arts and Sports Club. It is after a COVID-induced three-year gap that the sixth edition of the event is coming to Mangalassery. The organisers are expecting around 1.5 lakh spectators to experience the water extravaganza.
Tourism minister PA Muhammad Riyas will inaugurate the festival at 2.30 p.m on Sunday. MV Govindan MLA will distribute the prizes to the winner at the valedictory function, informed the organisers.
