kite festival

Kite flying is an extremely popular sport in China, India, Japan, Thailand, and several other countries. ‘Kite fighting’ takes place in numerous countries, where kite fighters try to cut the kites of the competitors or break them if possible. Kite fighters pass their strings through an amalgamation of glue and ground glass powder, making it more powerful and prone to cutting the strings of competing kites. This practice can be dangerous, as the ropes also have the potential to injure people.

A kite competition is known as “Gudiparan Bazi” in Afghanistan. Before the start of the war in the country, “Gudiparan Bazi” was a pastime for many Afghans. From the beautifully designed kites, which came in various shapes, to the making of the “tar” (wire), it was a matter of prestige to compete for the title of best kite fighter in the neighborhood. This sport became a means of escape for Afghans during the difficult times of the war.

In India, the Makar Sankranti festival is related to kite flying. Celebrated every 14th of January, you can see millions of kites all over North India. It is particularly popular in the state of Gujarat, where the festival is a public holiday.

The Japan Kite Association organizes a kite flyer meeting every year in Uchinada. The “”traditional”” festivals here are centered around a geographic area and a type of kite. This festival, however, attracts kites and flyers from all over the country.

The kite flying event in Weifang, China attracts competitors from all over China and some from the rest of the world. This festival witnesses an astonishing diversity of handmade kites. Many international competitors are also present.

The Thai Kite Heritage Group organizes a world-class kite-flying event every two years on the polo ground at the Royal Palace. It is not an exaggeration to call the festival “majestic”.