Preparations are underway for the 12th edition of the Malabar River Festival,set to take place from July 30 to August 2. This event,recognized as Asia’s largest white water kayaking competition,will unfold along the Chalipuzha and Iruvanjippuzha rivers, tributaries of the Chaliyar. With international kayakers already arriving and training,organizers anticipate significant global participation.
The festival,one of India’s premier adventure sports events, is being organized by the Kerala Tourism department in partnership with the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS). Technical assistance comes from the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA). Binu Kuriakose,CEO of KATPS,reported that registration is progressing smoothly, with ten prominent international kayakers confirming their attendance .
Historically,the festival has seen about 50% of participants register on-site, and this year,organizers expect a similar turnout from both domestic and international kayakers. The picturesque backdrop of Malabar highlands, particularly the rivers flowing through the Kodenchery and Thiruvambady grama panchayats, will serve as the competition's stage. The challenging course,characterized by dense forests and rugged terrain, promises to test the skills of all competitors.
Swollen by the southwest monsoon, the rivers present formidable currents,technical rapids,and sudden drops. These unpredictable water conditions demand exceptional agility,control, and stamina from the athletes. Giovanni Giorgi from Italy has already arrived in Kodenchery to begin his training. He brings experience from paddling in various rivers across France and Italy, as well as participation in last year’s festival.
Currently, several kayakers from Kerala and other states are honing their skills on the Iruvanjippuzha and Chalipuzha rivers in preparation for the competition. The festival will feature multiple events,including Kayak Slalom,Boater Cross,Downriver Race,and the Super Final Extreme Race. male champion will earn the title of ‘Rapid Raja,’ while female champion will be crowned ‘Rapid Rani.’
Last year’s festival attracted 18 international athletes and around 85 Indian kayakers . To build excitement for this year’s event, pre-festival activities are being organized to encourage public participation and engagement. As the countdown to the festival continues, the anticipation among participants and spectators alike is palpable .
