Comes Independence Day and the blue August sky is enlivened by the kites of all hues and shades. It the only day of the year when even the sky also seems too limited. People of all ages come out with the close ones and celebrate this very day with great zeal and enthusiasm from dawn to dusk. The event draws expert kite makers from all over the world. Crowded terraces, ardent 'patangbaaz' and delicious Indian cuisines are the hallmarks of the day. The word 'patang' was first used by the Indian poet Manzan in Madhumalti' in 1542 AD.
Man already had the fascination to fly since time immemorial.
And it was this desire that led to the invention of Kites. The tradition of kite flying was brought to India and several other countries from China, 3000 years ago. The material that was ideal for the making of the kites (silk for the sail and bamboo for the frame) was readily available in China. During the 19th century it was used experimentation purposes by the scientists. Later on it was even used for the military purposes in order to send the signals and measure the distance of the enemy camp. It is said that kite was first invented by the Chinese philosopher – Mozi and Lu Ban in the 5th century BC.
Kite flying in India is the major cultural event, that is mainly associated with the 15th August, when the country celebrates the Independence Day. Flying kite symbolizes freedom. Kite Flying is the evidence that the spirit of the Independence Day is alive in the heart of the Indians. One more highlight of this particular day is the 'Kabootarbaazi' (i.e. showing the skills of flying pigeons into the air).
Kite flying established itself as the regular sports in India during the regime of the Mughals. Some of the prominent kite enthusiasts of that period were Mughal Shah Alam, Nawab Asif -ud-Daula, Ansari, Khwaja Mitthan, Mir Vilayat Ali, Lamdur, Illahi Baksh, Mir Amdo and Sheikh Imdad. Their patangs were especially decorated by the gold and silver fringes, and in case they were cut down by the fun loving rival, whoever brought them back were rewarded with Rs 5. Legends has it that there was a julaha (weaver) who had gained immense respect as a fabulous kite flyer. Than the name of Lamdur and Mir Amdo is mentioned in particular, as they has achieved distinction in this art.
Due to the inexpensiveness, it gained popularity among the people in no time. The simple kites can easily be brought for Rs 2 and Majha (reel) for Rs 20. The art of kite flying is also known as 'Patang Ladana'. Kites are made in advance before the day. The dor with which the patang is manoeuvred is coated with the layers of the finely ground glass mixed with a paste of rice and gum. After that it is dried and rolled onto the reels or 'firkees'.
Today kite flying has become a popular hit among the people in India. In Jodhpur, the International Kite Festival is held in the month of January on the eve of Makar Sankranti every year. Thousands of people from all over the world gather in the city of Jodhpur to enjoy this stunning visual experience. Than in Haryana, the kite flying is mostly done on the occasion of Basant Panchami.
So, next time when you are visiting India, plan your tour during Independence Day to vew the famous Kite Flying.
Travelling is My Forte and penning them down is my hobby.
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