Flights of Fantasy – The Kite Sport

This one has to be the most unique sport in the world, this is what I call, EXCLUSIVE. Many would have seen what a Kite looks like, the small ones. But only few people outside India must have seen the big ones, the ones prevalent in India and even fewer, would have had the opportunity to see them in action. Kite flying has been a part of Indian lifestyle since the reign of Mughals. Then as well, it was a popular sport. Popular because, unlike other sports known at that time, which were mostly royal and for the affluent, kite flying was extremely inexpensive and could be enjoyed by even a poor man.

Kite flying in India is largely associated with 15th August, Indian Independence Day. Flying a kite is like a ritual on the day. Starting from small kids to the eldest in the family, everybody is engaged in the activity. Entire sky is covered with kites of all sizes, shapes and color. Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan and some parts of Uttar Pradesh are the major sites of kite flying. Especially the Old Delhi region, where you will find kids flying kites from the narrow lanes and from the rooftops of their homes. Throughout the day, I roamed the streets looking at children running here and there to catch hold of the 'kati patang' (broken Kite) and listening to echo of shouts of “pakad, pakad” (catch it, catch it).

The most popular kites that are seen today are the paper kites with slick bamboo sticks. They seem to be the oldest ones to be around and the cheapest as well. However, slowly and gradually, new forms of kites have also started appearing on the front. Kites with carbon rods, fiber glass and motorized kites are the need of the hour. Over the period, the shape and size of kites have changed like the weather in an year. The first kites were not very aerodynamic and needed a push to get into the air. This was provided by burning rags that were hung to the base of the kite. The hot air did make them fly, but also made the kites heavy and non maneuverable. Then came leaner and more aerodynamic kites called 'tukkal', that took to the air quite comfortability and were highly maneuverable. These kites gave the flier an extra edge over others and gave them a chance to exhibit their skills. They are flown with sharp threads called 'manja'. The threads are laced with finely powdered glass, making them a potent weapon against other competitors in the open skies. The colors used, the designs made, all reflect the true culture of India.

The good thing now is that, kite flying is no more reserved to special days like 15th August or Makar Sakranti. Neither is it confined to a particular place. The Passion of kite flying has spread with such intensity, it feels that the golden days of kite sports are back. I won't be surprised if it gives Adventure sports in India, a run for its money. There are number of kite festivals held in India, in different states like Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. These Festivals attract participants from various other countries such as Japan, Canada, Germany, Sri Lanka and USA. I had the opportunity to be a part of one of these festivals. Even though I was not participating, I found my part of spectating, really challenging. It is not easy to look up for many hours, trying to catch sight of the most vibrant kite shining bright in the sun. But what kept me away from the feeling of uncomfortability, was the mesmerizing scene of amalgamation of cultures of so many different countries, tying around each other joyfully. Believe me, a sight worth remembering a lifetime.

Rita Jain is an experienced writer who has written on many varied topics. At the moment, she is researching about various events related to Sports in India. For more of her works, Visit Indialine.com.