The International Kite Festival is a celebration of kite flying that takes place annually in various countries around the world. It is a colourful and vibrant event that brings people of all ages together to enjoy the beauty and excitement of kite flying. The International Kite Festival is an annual event that takes place in Ahmedabad, the capital city of Gujarat, India.
During the International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad, the skies above the city are filled with colourful kites of all shapes and sizes, and people can be seen flying kites on rooftops, fields, and open spaces.
Makar Sankranti Celebrations – Kite Festivals, Rituals & More
Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan Festival is a Hindu festival that marks the transition of the sun into the sign of Capricorn, or Makara. It is celebrated on or around January 14th every year and is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. This year, it will be celebrated on 15th January.
Kite flying is an integral part of the celebrations and is seen as a way to pay tribute to the gods and to bring good luck and prosperity. In some traditions, kites are also seen as symbols of freedom and liberation, and flying a kite on Makar Sankranti is believed to bring people closer to the natural world and to the divine.
History Of Kite Flying In India
The history of kite flying in India can be traced back to the Mughal era, when it was a popular pastime among the royals.
The history of kite flying in India can be traced back to the Mughal era, when it was a popular pastime among the royals. Over time, it has evolved into a cultural event that is celebrated by people of all ages and backgrounds. In India, kite flying has been a popular pastime for centuries. In the past, it was considered a sport and a way for people to socialise and pass their time. However, it has since evolved into a cultural event that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
The significance of the International Kite Festival in India lies in the fact that it brings people together to celebrate and have fun. It is a time for people to come together and enjoy the beauty and excitement of kite flying, and participate in various rituals, traditions, and activities that are unique to each state.
Other than being a fun and enjoyable activity, kite flying in India also has a deeper meaning and significance in many cultures. In some traditions, kites are seen as symbols of freedom and liberation, and flying a kite is thought to bring good luck and prosperity. In other traditions, kite flying is seen as a way to connect with the natural world and pay tribute to the gods.
5 States & Their 5 Ways Of Celebrating Makar Sankranti
Regardless of the specific cultural significance, the Kite Festival or Uttarayan festival is a celebration of the joy and wonder of kite flying that brings people together from all walks of life to enjoy this timeless activity.
Let’s find out more about how these festivals are celebrated in each state:
1. Gujarat
Uttarayan festival is celebrated in Gujarat on January 14th every year to mark the beginning of longer days and shorter nights. The kite festival in Gujarat is one of the most important festivals in the state and is marked by the flying of kites from dawn until dusk. The skies are filled with colourful kites of all shapes and sizes, and people of all ages participate in the festivities during the Kite festival in Gujarat. In addition to the kite flying festival, there are also various cultural programs and food stalls set up as part of the celebrations.
2. Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, the kite flying festival is known as Uttarayan. It is a public holiday in the state and is marked by the flying of kites, as well as cultural programs and traditional dishes.
3. Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, the festival is known as Pongal and is celebrated over a period of four days in mid-January. It is a public holiday in the state and is marked by the preparation of traditional dishes, praying to the sun god, and flying kites. Pongal is also a time for family and friends to come together and exchange gifts.
4. Punjab
In Punjab, the festival is known as Lohri. It is a public holiday in the state and is marked by bonfires, dancing, and kite flying. Lohri is also a time for people to come together and celebrate the harvest season.
5. Rajasthan
The Jaipur Kite Festival is an annual event that takes place in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, India. During the Jaipur Kite Festival, the skies above Jaipur are filled with colourful and creative kites of all shapes and sizes, and people can be seen flying kites on rooftops, fields, and open spaces. The festival also includes cultural programs, food stalls, and other activities.
Other states in India that celebrate the International Kite Festival include Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Haryana. In each of these states, the festival is celebrated with its own unique customs, traditions, and rituals.
5 Tips To Enjoy The International Kite Festival On Makar Sankranti
If you want to make the most of the International Kite Festival, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Arrive Early
To get the best spot from which to fly your kite, it’s a good idea to arrive early. This way, you can set up your kite and get ready for a full day of fun.
2. Bring Plenty Of Water & Snacks
Kite flying can be a physically demanding activity, so it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the day. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you going.
3. Dress Appropriately
Usually, the weather around this time is warm. So be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes as you may be standing for long periods of time.
4. Follow Safety Guidelines
The Kite Flying Festival has its own guidelines and rules. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines when flying your kite. Avoid flying near power lines or other obstacles, and be mindful of other people and pets in the area.
5. Have Fun
Above all, the most important thing is to have fun! Kite flying is a joyful and exciting activity, so don’t be afraid to let loose and enjoy yourself. Kite flying in India and the International Kite Festival is a place to be!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a great time at the International Kite Festival
5 Simple DIYs On How To Make A Kite
You might be wondering how to make a kite at home. Now, let’s move on to some DIY kite-making at home. Here are five ideas to get you started:
1. Newspaper Kite
Don’t have time to get your art supplies, learn how to make a kite with a newspaper! This is a simple and easy DIY kite to make using just a few basic materials. You will need newspaper, string, tape, and a pair of scissors. Simply cut the newspaper into a diamond shape and attach the string using tape. Learn how to make a kite with a newspaper and have fun!
2. Plastic Bag Kite
For this kite, you will need a plastic bag, string, and a pair of scissors. Cut the plastic bag into a diamond shape and attach the string using tape.
3. Paper Kite
Learning how to make a paper kite needs simple materials like paper, bamboo sticks and regular art supplies. You will need bamboo sticks, string, and paper. First, create a frame using bamboo sticks and then cover it with paper. Attach the string and you’re ready to fly.
4. Paper Plate Kite
This kite is perfect for younger children as it is very easy to make. You will need a paper plate, string, markers or crayons, and scissors. Simply cut the paper plate into a diamond shape and decorate it with markers or crayons. Attach the string and you’re ready to fly.
5. Fabric Kite
For this kite, you will need fabric, string, and a pair of scissors. Cut the fabric into a diamond shape and attach the string using knots.
How To Tie A Thread To Your Kite Correctly?
Now that you have learnt how to make a kite at home, it’s time to learn how to tie thread to a kite. To tie the thread to a kite, follow these steps:
- Lay the kite out flat on the ground.
- Take the end of the string and tie it to one of the corners of the kite using a square knot. Make sure the knot is secure and tight.
- Repeat this process on the opposite corner of the kite.
That’s it! You have learnt how to tie thread to kite and you are now ready to fly. Just make sure to follow safety guidelines and have fun.
How To Fly A Kite Perfectly?
Now that your kite is ready, it’s time to learn how to fly kite, follow these steps:
- Find an open and clear area with enough space for your kite to fly. Avoid flying near power lines or other obstacles.
- Hold the kite by the bridle (the part of the kite where the string is attached) and let out a little bit of string.
- Toss the kite into the air with a gentle underhand motion. As the kite starts to fly, let out more string to give it a higher lift.
- To make the kite turn or change direction, simply pull on one side of the string.
That’s it! With a little bit of practice, you’ll learn how to fly a kite. Just make sure to follow safety guidelines and have fun.
Now that you have learnt how to make a kite and how to fly a kite, enjoy this colourful and vibrant event that is celebrated in various countries around the world, with a special significance in India where it coincides with the festival of Makar Sankranti. Whether you’re a seasoned kite flyer or a beginner, there’s something special about the feeling of seeing your kite soar through the sky. So next time the International Kite Festival in India rolls around, make sure to grab your kite and join in on the fun!
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