Kite festival 14 January is celebrated in India as Makar Sankranti - heralding the transition
of the sun into the Northern hemisphere. It is also known a big kite day in most parts of India, especially Gujrat, Jaipur (Rajsthan), Uttar Pradesh. Even Ahmedabad (Gujarat) celebrates international kite
festival on this day.
The preparation for the festival begins before many days. People stock up sufficient numbers of kites to prevent any defilement during the festival. The thread, which is going to be used for kite
flying, is covered with the mixtures of glue and powdered glass that made it so thick and sharp that it can cut the finger, if carelessly used. Then the thread rolled onto the spools.
Kite flying starts with the sun rise. Early morning, people go out into the open space or on the terraces and rooftops and indulge in kite fighting in a sportive spirit and generally have fun. People also enjoy traditional delicacies which are especially prepared for this day. The fun goes not stop through out the day. It does not end with the set, but at night, illuminate kites soar into the sky to compete with the stars.
On this day, colourful kites of various shapes and sizes almost blot out the sky. Friends, relative, neighbours and even strangers join in this riotous celebration and shouts when the kites are cut down.
The festival attracts expert kite-makers and fliers not only from major cities of India but also from around the world.