The Joy of Kite Flying on Makar Sankranti

 

The Joy of Kite
Flying on Makar Sankranti

Makar
Sankranti, a festival that marks the beginning of longer days and the harvest
season, is a vibrant celebration in India. As the sun god Surya begins his
journey towards the northern hemisphere, people come together to mark the
occasion with traditional customs and joyous festivities.

One of the most
delightful aspects of Makar Sankranti is the tradition of kite flying. The
sight of colorful kites soaring in the sky fills the air with a sense of
merriment and community. But have you ever wondered about the significance
behind this tradition?

Origins and
Meaning

The custom of
kite flying on Makar Sankranti is believed to have originated from ancient
practices. One theory suggests that exposure to sunlight during this time helps
in recovery from seasonal ailments like cough, cold, and headaches. As winter
brings colder temperatures, people tend to stay indoors, limiting their
exposure to the sun. Makar Sankranti serves as a reminder to step out, bask in
the sunlight, and celebrate the arrival of spring.

Another belief
associates kite flying with expressing gratitude to the gods. Kites, throughout
history, have been used for various purposes, including warding off evil,
sending messages, and even for scientific exploration. Today, however, kite flying
on Makar Sankranti is primarily a recreational activity, a way for people to
come together and enjoy the festive spirit.

A Celebration
in Ranchi

This year, the
Department of Jharkhand Tourism in Ranchi organized a special kite flying
event. The event featured veteran kite flyer Ashok Sah and his team from
Maharashtra, who showcased a variety of impressive kites, including dragon
kites, chess kites, and even Spiderman kites. The display was a major
crowd-pleaser, attracting people of all ages.

A Time for
Sweets and Community

Makar Sankranti
is also a time for indulging in traditional sweets. People gather in fields and
communities to fly their kites while sharing delicacies like tilkut, laddoos
made with til (sesame seeds), flattened rice with yogurt, and jaggery. This
communal aspect of the festival strengthens social bonds and fosters a sense of
togetherness.

A Look Back:
The History of Kites

Kites have a
long and fascinating history, dating back nearly 3,000 years. China is often
credited with popularizing kite flying, thanks to the readily available
materials like silk and bamboo. Early Chinese kites were flat and often
rectangular, but later evolved to include stabilizing elements and decorative
motifs. Some kites even featured strings and whistles that produced musical
sounds while flying.

Celebrating
Makar Sankranti

As we celebrate
Makar Sankranti, let us embrace the joy of kite flying, the warmth of the sun,
and the spirit of community. May this festival bring happiness and prosperity
to all.

Photos

• A delicious spread of Churra and
  Dahi (yogurt) for Makar Sankranti.

• A vibrant display of kites of
  various shapes and sizes, including jellyfish, dragon, Spiderman, and
  chessboard kites, showcased in Ranchi.

Text and Photos
by Ashok Karan

Website:
Ashokkaran.blogspot.com