VP Radhakrishnan Inaugurates Aranmula Vallamkali in Keralam
C. P. Radhakrishnan highlights heritage, teamwork and unity at the traditional boat race on River Pamba
- Vice President inaugurates the Aranmula Uthrittathi Vallamkali.
- He highlights the festival’s links with Onam, devotion and Kerala’s traditions.
- Radhakrishnan says tradition and modernity can go hand in hand.
- He calls for preservation of traditional arts, crafts and knowledge systems.
GG News Bureau
ARANMULA, 30th Aug: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday inaugurated the Aranmula Uthrittathi Vallamkali on the River Pamba, describing the traditional festival as a symbol of Keralam’s rich cultural heritage, devotion and timeless traditions.
Congratulating the people of Keralam on the State’s recent renaming, Radhakrishnan recalled that, as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he had presided over the passage of the State Renaming Bill during the recently concluded session. He also extended his greetings on the occasion of Onam.
The Vice President said the Aranmula Vallamkali, associated with Onam and the sacred tradition of Vallasadya, reflects teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship. He noted that beautifully decorated Palliyodams, with more than 100 oarsmen rowing in rhythm, form a distinctive part of the celebration.
Highlighting the spiritual significance of the River Pamba, Radhakrishnan said the river is closely associated with the Sabarimala pilgrimage and represents faith, purification and spiritual surrender. He also recalled his seven pilgrimages to Sabarimala and described his first visit as particularly significant.
Radhakrishnan highlighted Aranmula’s heritage, including the ancient Sree Parthasarathy Temple and the GI-tagged Aranmula Kannadi. Recalling an event at the Vice-President’s Residence last year, he said he had gifted Aranmula Kannadi to guests, who appreciated its craftsmanship.
He stressed the importance of preserving and promoting traditional arts, crafts and indigenous knowledge systems for future generations.
The Vice President observed that Aranmula’s traditions continue to connect people with their roots, including those living and working abroad who return to participate in cherished cultural celebrations.
Emphasising that tradition and modernity can go hand in hand, Radhakrishnan recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”. He said India’s diverse festivals demonstrate the country’s cultural unity and added that diversity is a source of strength rather than division.
Governor of Keralam Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Minister for Home Affairs Ramesh Chennithala, Minister for Higher Education Roji M. John, Minister for Water Resources Mons Joseph, MP Anto Antony, Aranmula MLA Abhin Varkey and other dignitaries attended the programme.
