Snake boat races are a familiar sight during the festive season in Kerala, but this August, the tradition is getting a bold new twist. On August 17, Muziris Heritage Park in Muppalam, Alappuzha, will host Red Bull Vallam Vali, an event that blends the power of competition with the spirit of Kerala’s most beloved water sport.

At its core, Vallam Vali takes the essence of Vallam Kali, Kerala’s iconic snake boat race, and reimagines it as a high-energy tug of war on water. In the Chundan Vallam Row Off, two giant 80-man snake boats pull against each other in a test of strength and rhythm. In another format, the Iruttukuthy Vallam Row Off, two teams of 25 compete while rowing on the same boat, relying on coordination and sheer will to win.

The event is being held in the lead-up to Onam, tapping into the festive spirit and the sense of unity that defines this time of year. But it’s not just about speed or muscle. Vallam Vali is designed as a cultural experience, with traditional performances woven into the day’s schedule. Audiences can expect the thunder of Chenda Melam, Kerala’s signature percussion ensemble, and the nostalgic pull of Vanjji Pattu, the rowing songs sung by boatmen on the water.

Red Bull isn’t trying to replace tradition here. Instead, Vallam Vali aims to offer a fresh way to experience something deeply rooted in Kerala’s identity — by preserving the essence, but presenting it with a twist.
Tickets for the event are available on BookMyShow, and updates will be shared via Red Bull India’s social media channels.

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