Ahmedabad, known for so many things over the centuries, is now being dubbed kite capital of India'. the azure sky is dotted with colour and rooftops send signals of pulsating action as people perform gymnastics with wrists and waistlines.
Those who are religious chant Gayatri mantra with fervour to invoke Sun God as he starts his valiant journey in the northern sky to bring to an end chilling winter hours. The breeze is forceful and as kites swing, people sway in jubilation.
People socialise and savour undhiyu, a delicate mix of vegetables and spices. Ardent kite-flyers on crowded roofs relish this traditional delicacy while keeping an anxious eye on the fate of their kites.
The playful rivalry is visible from early morning. Gradually, one sees kites overtaking, overlapping and snapping each other bringing glory and cheer to the winners.
It is said kings and nawabs patronised this festival both for entertainment and also to demonstrate their qualities of command and organisation.
Kites have also become a source of brisk business. Manufacturers are able to make good money and also showcase their skills of precision, pasting, coating and mixing to produce millions of kites.
The festival is undoubtedly secular. Kites are affordable to all and depict the hidden spirit of people who want to hit new highs. It's enjoyed by local population as well as diaspora visiting home.
Legend says Chinese traveller Huen Tsang had flown a kite in 200 BC to intimidate the army of Han dynasty. Thereafter, kites were used to send signals and measure distances to enemy camps till 500 AD.
Kite flying was a popular sport in China till the 14th century. Today, kites are put on regal and martial display and have become a major item in entertainment industry.
ref: The Times of India
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