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Key Points

Karulai made history by hosting the district's first Vandippoottu vehicle mud pulling competition that attracted massive crowds. Organized by Nilambur Tourism Organisation and Wild Wheels adventure club, the event featured around 40 off-road vehicles battling through challenging mud tracks. MLA Aryadan Shoukath inaugurated the race, though his first attempt required tractor assistance after getting stuck in the mud. The competition aims to boost adventure tourism in Nilambur while modernizing traditional bullock cart racing traditions.

Key Points: Karulai Hosts First Vandippoottu Vehicle Mud Pulling Race

  • First-ever vehicle mud pulling competition in Karulai district
  • Around 40 off-road vehicles participated including female drivers
  • MLA Aryadan Shoukath inaugurated despite initial vehicle getting stuck
  • Event organized to promote Nilambur's adventure tourism potential
  • Traditional bullock cart racing adapted to modern four-wheelers
  • Part of Nilambur Tourism Conclave to showcase regional attractions
2 min read

Kerala: Thrilling 'Vandippoottu' race attracts crowds to Karulai

Nilambur's inaugural Vandippoottu off-road competition drew crowds with 40 vehicles racing through mud, boosting Kerala adventure tourism prospects.

"We are confident of attracting people all over the country to watch this event - MLA Aryadan Shoukath"

Nilambur, September 7

Karulai hosted the district's first-ever 'Vandippoottu' (vehicle mud pulling) competition on Sunday, a thrilling off-road event that saw around 40 vehicles participate. The event, which took place at Varikkal Padam in Karulai, drew large crowds from various parts of the district.

Vandippootu refers to preparing the field for paddy cultivation. Earlier, bulls were used for preparing fields.

The competition, organised by the Nilambur Tourism Organisation in collaboration with the adventure tourism club 'Wild Wheels,' featured a diverse group of participants, including one woman and four members of a single family. The event was held as part of the Nilambur Tourism Conclave.

Nilambur MLA Aryadan Shoukath officially inaugurated the race by driving an off-road vehicle. His first attempt got the vehicle stuck in the mud, and it had to be pulled out with a tractor. He then successfully completed the inauguration in another vehicle. The MLA stated that events like the 'Vandippoottu' race boost tourism and called for more projects to promote adventure tourism in the region.

MLA Aryadan Shoukath said, "I am inaugurating the 'Wild Wheels' competition organised by Nilambur Tourism Organisation. This is the first time we are experiencing this kind of competition. More than 500 people have gathered to watch the competition. People all over Kerala have participated in this event. We are confident of attracting people all over the country to watch this event. Earlier, we have witnessed similar events using bullock carts 'Kalappoottu'. This time, four-wheelers has been used for the first time."

The competition was organised with the aim of showcasing Nilambur's tourism potential and fame to the world, much like the traditional 'Kalappoottu' (bullock race). Karulai Panchayat President Jayasree Ancherian presented the trophies to the winners who secured the first, second, and third places.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
So proud to see a woman participating in this traditionally male-dominated activity! More power to her 💪. Nilambur is becoming a great adventure tourism destination.
A
Arjun K
The MLA getting stuck in mud during inauguration is hilarious 😂! At least he tried and then succeeded. Shows even officials can have fun with the public. Good initiative for tourism!
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Sarah B
While this looks exciting, I hope they're considering environmental impact. Mud racing can affect local ecosystems if not managed properly. Otherwise, great way to preserve cultural traditions!
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Vikram M
Four members from a single family participating together - that's some serious family bonding goals! 🚗💨 Reminds me of our childhood playing in mud during monsoon.
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Karthik V
From bullock carts to 4-wheelers - what an evolution! This is how we should preserve our traditions while making them relevant for new generations. Next time planning to visit Kerala during such events.

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