National Minicoy fest kicks off, Jahadhoni woos audience

: The showcasing of rowing talents of Lakshadweep men across the scenic Arabian Sea marked the beginning of the fifth edition of National Minicoy festival, which was flagged off by here today by Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Ashok Gajapathi Raju.
Speaking at the function, Raju, who was the chief guest said the Minicoy Festival reflects the unity in diversity of India. The multi-religion and multi-language culture is the mosaic of the country, he said.
"The mosaic of our country is our different languages and multi religion. We are one of the very few places, probably anywhere in the world, which can claim of such a diversity. Still we remain as one," he said.

Over 200 zealous oarsmen powered the oars of their boats in unison, reviving memories of the centuries-old seafaring culture of the scenic archipelago.
The race, in which about 30 specially designed boats in three different categories took part, was the highlight during the inaugural day of the two day-festival.
Organised by the Tourism Department here, the annual event is envisaged to showcase the unique culture, tradition and natural beauty of Minicoy, the southern most atoll of the Union Territory.

Among the three different categories, the race of 'Jahadhoni', the colourful and elegant traditional snake boat of Minicoy, a masterpiece of indigenous craftsmanship, enthralled everyone the most.

Traditionally trained oarsmen, belonging to villages of different islands of Lakshadweep, powered oars from lagoon to the finishing point with the local people, who had gathered in large numbers at the shore braving hot sun, lustily cheering the participants.
'Jahadhoni' occupies a significant place in the annual cultural fest as the unique snake boat variety of the island is facing extinction threat.
The race is included in the festival and its winner is awarded the Prime Minister's rolling trophy with an aim to revive the dying sport tradition, tourism department, the organiser of the event, said.
The trophy was instituted after the visit of then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to the union territory in the 1980s.

Besides 'Jahadhoni', race of 'Kudadhoni' (country craft), participated by teenagers and 'Bodudhoni', another boat variety, also enthralled the audience.
The demonstration by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard personnel enhanced the spirit of the event.
The minister also distributed the prestigious Prime Minister's trophy in Jahadhoni category and Rs four lakh cash award to the team 'Furious', who beat rival participants.
Kashmir Tourism minister Priya Sethi, administrator of Lakshadweep Farooq Khan and P P Mohammed Faizal, MP, were among those present.
The boat race was followed by a traditional food festival and cultural programmes.
The two day event will conclude tomorrow.