The 71st edition of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race unfolded on August 30, 2025, at the legendary Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, drawing lakhs of spectators and visitors from across Kerala, India, and abroad. Recognized as one of the most prestigious water regattas in the country, the event highlighted the deep cultural traditions of Kerala while serving as a grand sporting spectacle that has captivated audiences for over seventy years.

This year's competition featured an impressive line-up of 75 boats across nine categories, including 21 chundan valloms (snakeboats), each more than 100 feet long and powered by over a hundred oarsmen. Rowers maintained perfect rhythm to the pulsating beat of drums and the chanting of vanchipattu, creating a sight that blended athletic strength with cultural artistry.

Victories across categories reflected the diversity of Kerala's boat racing tradition. Velangadan (BBC, Kumaramkari) took top honours in the Churulan category, while Moonu Thaickal (TBC Cochin Town) led the Iruttukuthi 'A' race. The St. Sebastian boats triumphed in both the Iruttukuthi 'B' (Idiwal Boat Club, Kodungallur) and 'C' (Thoyikavu Desom Boat Club) grades.

In the Veppu 'B' grade, Punnathra Puraickkal (Kavanar City) emerged victorious. Women's participation stood out with Kattilthekkethil (Sports Authority of India) winning the Thekkanodi Thara race and Chellikadan (Janitha Memorial Boat Club) securing the Thekkanodi Kettu title. Adding to the cultural vibrancy, the 2025 edition also introduced a symbolic logo featuring Kakathampuratti rowing a boat, further rooting the spectacle in Kerala's heritage.