Coastin Carl
🌬️ International KITE Day ORIGIN & HISTORY
While the joy of kite flying has existed for millennia, International KITE Day is a relatively new celebration with a fascinating history that’s intertwined with an ancient Indian festival and is celebrated on the 14th Day in January.
Roots in INDIA
International KITE Day coincides with the Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti which is celebrated on January 14th. This festival marks the winter solstice and the turning point towards spring. It symbolizes good luck, hope, and the awakening of nature.
In Gujarat, INDIA, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as a two day public holiday with insane enthusiasm as Uttarayan, featuring a vibrant kite-flying tradition. This practice dates back centuries, possibly even mentioned in the Rigveda, an ancient Indian scripture.
For locals, kites signify the spirits of gods rising from their winter slumber and bringing sunshine and good fortune. It’s considered one of the most important harvest days in India as it also marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season
Possible ORIGINS
The first International Kite Festival was held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, INDIA in 1989. Gujarat is a western coastal state of India and celebrates more than 200 festivals each year. It’s considered the genesis of International KITE Day. People from as many as 42 countries have participated, showcasing their kites and kite skills.
The Patang Bazaar is open day and night during the festival week selling kites & strings (manja) in bulk. The prime spot for viewing is either the Sabarmati Riverfront with room for over 500,000 people along its bank or the Ahmedabad Police Stadium where people sprawl out gazing upward at thousands of kites.
The success of this festival led to the formal declaration of January 14th as International KITE Day. Its aim is to share the intricate joy of kite flying and its cultural significance with the world.
BEYOND India
Other places like Japan, Taiwan, Brazil, and Indonesia hold vibrant celebrations, each adding their own cultural twists and unique kite designs. Flying a kite becomes a meditative and joyful experience for many.
It’s a day to celebrate hope, new beginnings, and the pure joy of watching a kite dance in the wind, connecting cultures and hearts through a simple thread. So, grab your kite, join the celebration, and experience the magic of this special day!
