Chundan

Chundan is a term used in Kerala, India, to denote the chundan vallam, or snake boat, a traditional long racing vessel central to the state’s Vallam Kali water processions and boat races. The name is linked to its shape and its ornate bow, which often features a carved, snake-head motif that gives the craft its distinctive appearance.

Design and construction: Chundan vallams are among the longest boats used in competitive rowing, typically around 30 meters (about 100 feet) in length. They are constructed from hardwoods such as jackwood and built from a single tree trunk or large planks shaped to form a hollow hull. The prow is raised and elaborately carved, and the boat is painted and decorated for races. The vessel carries a large crew of rowers, usually around a hundred, who sit two abreast along the length, with a drummer positioned near the bow to regulate tempo and a coxswain or captain at the stern guiding the boat.

Use and cultural significance: Chundan vallams are a hallmark of Kerala’s boat racing tradition, especially during the monsoon season and the festival period culminating in Onam. They participate in major races such as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alappuzha, among other Vallam Kali events. The craft is associated with local boat-building communities known as vallamkars, and the construction and racing of chundan vallams are maintained as a living tradition, emphasizing teamwork, synchronization, and regional pride.

See also: Vallam Kali, snake boat.