10/16/2026
17 years ago, when we began the Canadian Nehru Trophy – Brampton Boat Race, our South Indian community was relatively small, with limited resources, little political influence, and no substantial government funding. We had no significant political backing or established influence in Brampton. What we had was a dream, a deep commitment to our cultural heritage, and a determination to bring people together through sport, tradition, and community spirit.
Today, that dream has grown into one of Canada's major multicultural sporting and cultural celebrations. The Canadian Nehru Trophy – Brampton Boat Race has become a proud symbol of perseverance, cultural preservation, community participation, and unity. This achievement was not built on political influence or government funding. It was built through the dedication of volunteers, the generosity of supporters, and the encouragement of community leaders who believed in our vision.
Among those leaders, Mayor Patrick Brown stands out as an exceptional supporter and partner.
Throughout his time as Mayor, Patrick Brown has demonstrated a level of personal engagement with our event that we deeply appreciate. He has never made us feel that the Brampton Boat Race is simply another event on his calendar. Instead, he has stood alongside our team with the spirit of a genuine partner, showing an understanding of what this celebration means to our community and to the multicultural identity of Brampton.
His continued encouragement and participation have helped strengthen our confidence, broaden our connections, and advance our ambition to make the Brampton Boat Race an even greater celebration for the entire city. We are sincerely grateful for his support and for the inclusive approach he has demonstrated toward communities like ours.
Over these 17 years, our community has grown significantly. Today, thousands of our community members are voters and active contributors to Brampton's civic, economic, cultural, and social life. Yet, we recognize that meaningful community representation requires more than numbers. It requires leaders who listen, build relationships, create opportunities, and recognize the contributions of every community.
We believe Patrick Brown's approach to community engagement reflects the importance of bringing people together, respecting cultural diversity, and ensuring that Brampton's many communities have opportunities to participate in the city's future.
As the Founder and President of the Canadian Nehru Trophy – Brampton Boat Race, I am proud to express my strong endorsement of Mayor Patrick Brown and his team for the upcoming Brampton municipal election. This endorsement comes from our experience of building a major community event from the ground up and from my sincere appreciation for the encouragement and partnership he has extended to us over the years.
We wish Mayor Patrick Brown and his team every success as they seek another term of leadership. We look forward to a future in which Brampton continues to grow as a city that celebrates its diversity, invests in community connections, encourages sports and cultural initiatives, and creates opportunities for the next generation.
Our journey has taught us that a community does not need to begin with influence or resources to achieve something extraordinary. It needs vision, perseverance, committed volunteers, and leaders who are willing to stand beside them.
17 years ago, we began with a small boat race and a big dream. Today, that dream has become a source of pride for Brampton and a celebration that brings people from diverse backgrounds together.
We believe the next chapter of Brampton's story should be built on that same spirit of inclusion, partnership, and shared progress.
With appreciation, confidence, and our best wishes for Brampton's future,
Kurian Prakkanam
Founder &Chief Organizer
Canadian Nehru Trophy – Brampton Boat Race
President- Brampton Malayalee Samajam,
