The wood to carve you, 

Is chosen after high scrutiny. 

It’s worshiped before being chopped, 

To give the majestic shape that you carry. 

You’re treated next to God, 

Revered and respected by all. 

The villagers that owns you, 

Love you like their progeny. 

You’re bathed in special oils, 

To make your body water resistant.

Your shape and curves, 

Add beauty to your gait. 

Aptly led by a leader, 

Sixty-four men climb on you, 

They take it as an honour, 

To represent their village with you. 

Three, take the main oars, 

Setting the directions right. 

Your center is filled with singers, 

To their cheerful tunes, you march in stride. 

Aptly called the ‘Chundan Vallam’, 

Your presence seems so magical. 

The Vanchipattu tunes that accompany, 

Sing valor of your village and you. 

You are the pride of your village

And that of the state too. 

And as I type these lines, 

I silently hum, “Kuttanadan Punchayile…” . 

***************************************************

This poem is a humble try to bring out the story of a snake boat, it’s divine significance etc. 

*Chundan Vallam – the malayalam name for a snake boat

* Kuttanadan Punchayile – Famous boat song or vanchi paatu

Pic Courtesy : Photo by Titoni Thomas: https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-riding-on-big-boats-on-water-8377242/