Ochirakali Boat Race

The Ochirakali boat race of Kerala is held in the premises of the sacred temple of Parabrahma. The unique thing about this temple is that there are no idols or sculptures that are worshipped. Parabrahma means the supreme power or creator of the universe. The presiding deity is universal consciousness. The Ochirakali boat race is held on the place where former rulers of Kerala, namely, Kayamkulam and Ambalappuzha are said to have fought a historic battle. The festival is held to honour that historical event. This is an annual event in the Sri Parabrahma temple and it aims at highlighting the martial skills of participants. Boat races are held along with many such events where people irrespective of their age flock to participate in mock duels that involves fighting with wooden sticks. The duels are fought in knee-deep water with healthy rivalry and in good spirits. The participants in the fight hold a sword in the right hand and a shield in other hand and are dressed as warriors. Only members of the Nair community used to participate in the kali. But now it has assumed the character of a festival in which members of all communities take active part. Women do not participate in the fight. There are no duel combats, only group fights. Two groups fight each other, each group advancing in offence and retreating in defence. The movement start slowly and gain momentum, attaining fast tempo.