Alappuzha: Two Knanaya oarsmen were among those who scripted a remarkable victory aboard Aroma Chundan, which lifted the Nehru Trophy in the 2026 Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Representing Kollam Aroma Club, Rajeev Raju and Jaibu Maliekal played key roles from the stern of the winning boat. Rajeev Raju, son of Kaippuram Raju and Viji of the Vallara Puthenpally Parish in Kumarakom, handled the oar at the first stern position, while Jaibu Maliekal, son of Maliekal Jacob and Annamma of St. Antony’s Knanaya Catholic Parish, Olassa, rowed from the fourth stern position.
For both Rajeev and Jaibu, this victory marked their fifth Nehru Trophy title. They had earlier achieved a hat-trick together in 2018, 2019 and 2022 while representing Pallathuruthy Boat Club. Jaibu went on to win the trophy again with Pallathuruthy Boat Club in 2024, while Rajeev secured the title with Viyapuram Chundan in 2025.
In 2026, the duo joined forces once again aboard Aroma Chundan, the latest boat of the newly formed Aroma Club, and secured the top position. With this victory, both have now won the prestigious Nehru Trophy five times, earning the distinction of being rare friends to have achieved five Nehru Trophy victories.
The duo had also tasted victory aboard the same Aroma Chundan at the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race held last month. In addition to their Nehru Trophy victories, both have also won the Champions Boat League (CBL) three times each, further highlighting their exceptional achievements in the world of boat racing.
Adding further pride to the Knanaya community’s achievement, several other Knanaya rowers also played key roles in the race. Ajin Abraham of Vilakkumarakayalchira (Marari), Kumarakom, rowed at the stern of Nadubhagam Chundan, which secured second place. Jiffy Felix of Naduvileparambil, Kumarakom, represented Arppookara Chundan, while Jiss Joseph of Pattakandathil, Olassa, was part of Ayaparambu Pandi.
The Knanaya community extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to these talented oarsmen, who continue to bring pride to the community on the thrilling stages of Kerala’s traditional boat races. May they achieve many more victories in the upcoming water festivals.
