Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Special classes for non-Malayali rowers; here’s what they learn

Alappuzha: Aanjukuthi, Valicheduthu…Kuthiyerinju..these Malayalam terms might sound gibberish to non-Malayalis. Rowers from outside Kerala who are members of various teams in the Nehru Trophy boat race also struggle with these words that are part of the rich linguistic heritage that defines the thrill of the annual regatta. So, most clubs have arranged special classes for the rowers who are not Malayalam speakers. Interestingly, more than 200 professional rowers from outside Kerala are taking up oars for various clubs in the Nehru Trophy boat race. Meanwhile, some of them have now become regulars at the iconic boat race.

Kayaking, canoeing, and rowing athletes from Kashmir and the North Eastern states have been training with the clubs for the Nehru Trophy. Besides their basic remuneration, the clubs often cover all the expenses, including their air tickets. These professional rowers are paid more than the native rowers or nonprofessional rowers. Although they are professionals, they need to undergo specialised training to easily adapt to the unique aspects of the boat race here. Moreover, they should be able to understand the instructions given by the leading captain during training and competition. They are taught Malayalam words associated with boat races and other essential topics in special classes arranged in small boats or makeshift ‘classrooms’ in the paddy fields.

Each team can include a maximum of 25% of professional rowers. However, the clubs are pretty secretive about their rowing stars and do not reveal their details. This is probably to avoid allegations and controversies that teams induct a larger number of professional rowers than the stipulated numbers. Meanwhile, the iconic Nehru Trophy boat race has become a major sporting event that provides opportunities and unique experiences for professional rowers from across the country.