Keralam: Red Bull Vallam Vali 2026 brought a fresh competitive twist to Keralam’s celebrated boat racing tradition, combining the spirit of Vallam kali with the intensity of Vadam Vali. The second season of the invitational event was held at historic Gothuruth in North Paravur, turning the Periyar River into an arena for an unusual tug of war on traditional boats.
The competition featured two formats, the Chundan Vallam Row Off and the Iruttukuthy Vallam Row Off. Punnamada Panthers and Vembanad Vikings reached the finals in both categories, with the Punnamada Panthers emerging victorious in both events.
The Chundan Vallam Row Off featured two 85 member crews aboard 100 foot snake boats positioned bow to bow. Each team rowed in the opposite direction, attempting to pull its rival away from the centre line. The Iruttukuthy Vallam Row Off featured 27 rowers on the same boat, with the two sides rowing against each other.
Four teams competed in the event: Ashtamadi Acers, Kuttanad Knights, Vembanad Vikings and Punnamada Panthers. The teams first competed in a round robin league, with each side playing three matches before the top two advanced to the final.
A winning team earned two points. If neither boat crossed the designated finish marker within 120 seconds, the team positioned farther from the centre line when the race was stopped was declared the winner. Aggregate winning times were used as a tie breaker during the league stage.
Gothuruth provided a fitting setting for the spectacle. The historic Vallamkali venue has hosted traditional boat races since 1938 and continues to celebrate Keralam’s sporting and cultural heritage.
Beyond the river, the event featured Chenda Melam performances and breakdance showcases, blending traditional culture with contemporary entertainment.
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