A voice ‘Wo Kata’ can be heard all over the city on 14 January as this is the auspicious occasion of ‘Makar Sakranti’. This day is celebrated with full zeal and gusto as this is the most awaited day of kite flying. The celebration starts early in the morning, with loud music and lot of gathering noticed.

Beautiful and colorful kites cover up the sky, sweet competition among the kite flyers takes place, to cut more kites. Entire city comes up on roofs to celebrate.

According to Hindu mythology, “Makar is a rashi (zodiac), and Sankranti means transition”. This elucidates that on this day, the sun changes its position. This occurrence is followed in different ways in different cities of the country.

This is even called as ‘Uttrayan’ and accordingly, people pursue the rituals, and celebrate the day with flying kites. The day is awaited by most of the kids as well as adults who like kite flying. People of every age participate in kite flying, whether it be a house wife, a kid, or senior citizens. All of them enjoy the day at its best charm.

The preparations to celebrate the festival start a day earlier with buying of kites, sweets and Manja (thread). The markets of the city start getting stacked from a few days earlier with numerous kites, of all size and shapes. The old city is worth a visit, the lanes of the markets are adorned with decoratives and lights. The sweet shops are loaded with mouth watering delicious recipes of sweets.

This kite flying took a great shape few years ago with an International Kite Festival. The best of kites from the entire globe, took part in the competition. The best ones are awarded by the Maharaja. And each participant in the final competition gets an opportunity to enjoy a grand dinner with the Maharaja of Jodhpur at his residence, Umaid Bhawan Palace.

The International Kite Festival is celebrated at Polo ground (Chaugan Stadium) and is carried for three days. A three day festivity takes place in two sections with an air show and releasing balloons and kites, and kite flying competition. The International Kite Festival has great standards, where kites from all over the world can be seen with some amazing kites noticed.


INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL

Time of the year : January 14
Places to Visit : Jaipur
Duration : Three Days
About : Kite Flying
Attraction : International Competition of Kites