The Chundan
A boat that became history.
The story of Nadubhagam Chundan
More than a boat. A living legacy.
Nadubhagam Chundan is not just a snake boat. It is a name written deep into Kerala’s Vallam Kali memory: a chundan known for pride, power, consistency, and a legacy that began with one of the most iconic moments in boat-race history.
The story of Nadubhagam is built on history, emotion, and belief. It is heard in the sound of the oars, felt in the roar of the supporters, and remembered through generations of people who carry the name with pride.
For NCFC, Nadubhagam Chundan is not a memory but a living presence. It represents the passion of fans, the commitment of rowers, and the pride of a community that believes this chundan belongs among the greatest ever.
For the 2026 season, Punnamada Boat Club carries the responsibility of rowing Nadubhagam Chundan. With the support of fans and the strength of the crew, the boat enters the season with pride, expectation, and the weight of a powerful legacy.
1952: The beginning of a legend
The victory that created history.
In 1952, Nadubhagam Chundan became the winner of the inaugural Nehru Trophy race. It was the moment that placed the boat forever in Kerala’s boat-race history and gave Nadubhagam an honour no other chundan can claim in the same way.
The victory became even more memorable because of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru himself. Moved by the excitement of the race, the Prime Minister stepped onto the winning Nadubhagam Chundan. That moment turned a race victory into a story remembered across generations.
For NCFC, 1952 is not just a date. It is where the legend began. It reminds every supporter that Nadubhagam Chundan did not simply win a race; it helped shape the identity of Kerala’s most celebrated boat-race tradition.
Race legacy & achievements
The most consistent in Nehru Trophy history.
Nadubhagam Chundan is widely recognised as one of the chundans with the strongest final-round records in Nehru Trophy history. After its historic 1952 win, Nadubhagam reached the finals 36 times: a mark of consistency that reflects the strength, respect, and expectation carried by this boat.
The new Nadubhagam Chundan, built in 2014 by Sabu Narayanan Achari, continued that fighting spirit. Since then, it has been known for its regular presence in the Nehru Trophy final, proving that its strength was not only preserved, but renewed.
In 2019, Nadubhagam delivered one of the most dominant seasons in modern boat-race history. It lifted the Nehru Trophy and won 11 out of 12 races in the inaugural Champions Boat League. For fans, that season remains the benchmark: a record run that defines Nadubhagam as a true champion chundan.
Why Nadubhagam matters
A name that still moves people.
From the first Nehru Trophy race in 1952 to its record-breaking modern performances, Nadubhagam stands today as one of the most loved and respected chundans in Kerala. Its story is not only about victories, but about the pride and emotion it continues to create.
Nadubhagam Chundan matters because it carries identity, pride, and belonging. For many supporters, the boat is connected to childhood memories, family stories, race-day emotion, and the thrill of seeing a legendary chundan on the water.
For NCFC, this is not only a boat. This is the legend we stand behind: a symbol of belief that must be protected, celebrated, and carried forward with pride.