Pune: 98th COEP Regatta Showcases Kayak Ballet, Mashaal Dance and Shell Games
Reported by Ritesh Dhar
Pune, 23rd March 2026: The banks of the Mula River came alive with colour, rhythm and tradition as the 98th edition of the iconic COEP Regatta was held on March 21 and 22 at the COEP Boat Club. Centred around the theme “Legacy in Motion,” the event celebrated nearly a century of heritage while showcasing the passion, discipline and teamwork of students.
Organised by COEP Technological University, one of Asia’s oldest academic institutions, the Regatta is widely regarded as India’s longest-running college festival. Recognised in the Limca Book of Records as the country’s oldest college festival, the event drew an impressive crowd of more than 12,000 spectators who gathered along the riverfront to witness the spectacular performances.
The tradition of the Regatta dates back to 1928, when it was first introduced by students of the historic COEP Boat Club. Over the decades, the festival has evolved into one of Pune’s most anticipated annual events, blending sport, culture and artistic expression on water.
The event was graced by chief guest Vilas Javdekar, founder and chairman of Vilas Javdekar Developers, who praised the university for preserving a tradition that unites generations of students and alumni while celebrating the spirit of excellence.
This year’s Regatta featured a series of signature performances that transformed the Mula River into a dynamic stage of precision and creativity. One of the most thrilling segments was the Shell Games, where teams of rowers demonstrated exceptional strength, speed and synchronisation. The intense competition highlighted the endurance and teamwork required to navigate the waters with precision.
Equally captivating was the Kayak Ballet, where performers moved gracefully across the river in perfect synchrony with music. Their elegant choreography turned the water into a flowing canvas of rhythm and movement, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.
As evening descended, the spectacle continued with the Punt Formation. Illuminated boats created intricate patterns across the river, forming visually striking shapes against the night sky. The performance reflected the high level of coordination and discipline among the participants.
Adding to the excitement were the Telematches, a series of lively water-based challenges that tested the agility, balance and teamwork of the competitors. The atmosphere was further heightened by dazzling fireworks that lit up the sky, their reflections shimmering across the river’s surface.
The grand finale of the evening was the Mashaal Dance, a breathtaking performance in which participants danced gracefully on boats while holding blazing torches. The glowing flames moving across the dark waters created a dramatic and unforgettable visual, symbolising the energy and enduring spirit of the Regatta.
The event was supported by title sponsor VJ Developers, chief sponsor Amphenol, and associate sponsor FinIQ, whose contributions played a significant role in the successful organisation of the festival.
As the celebrations concluded, the 98th COEP Regatta once again reaffirmed its reputation as a unique blend of sport, tradition and cultural expression. More than just a competition, the Regatta continues to represent the dedication, coordination and enthusiasm of COEP students, carrying forward a legacy that has inspired generations for nearly a century.
