Kite Festival Makar Sankranti

Kite Festival Makar Sankranti “Jaipur ki patangbaji“ is world famous for the enthusiasm and zeal of Jaipurites for kite flying and sweet delicacies served on Makar Sankranti. On the day of Makar Sankranti, the whole Sky seems to turn into a battle ground as people compete for their kites to stay longer in the sky. In Jaipur Kites virtually blot out the sky. Everyone joins in this riotous celebration and shouts of " Woh Kata Hai !" reverberate from rooftops to the accompaniment of drums as adversary's kites are cut down. And everyone's an adversary! Any kite in the sky is fair game !

Its been five years that this Desert Kite Festival is held. Kite makers flaunt kites sized as big as 1.5km of various shapes and Designs. Some carrying messages, some depicting social issues, some as caricatures of politicians. Its been the most popular event recently, even tourists can take part in various kite flying competitions. The colours that flaunt in the blue sky mesmerises the viewers.

1. Early Morning Rituals On Sankranti
The festival begins at the crack of dawn with devotees visiting the Gattaji Temple for a holy dip in the beautiful natural springs, also called kunds. It is believed that by doing this on Makar Sankranti, one is cleansed of all their sins. Thereafter, people feed cows with hay or grass, as the animal is considered holy

2. Family, Food, Festivities
The day is filled with joy. People visit each other. The women, in particular, invite each other for elaborate feasts that include traditional savouries. Music is played to liven up the celebrations. Dal Bati Churma, Gajak, Pakodi and Pheni, and Rewari are some sweet dishes made in every home. Laddoos made by combining til (sesame) with jaggery are another favourite. Til is considered nourishing to eat during winter as it provides protection and nutrition to the body to withstand cold temperatures.

3. Kite Flying Festival
Jaipur hosts a famous kite festival during Makar Sankranti that draws tourists and kite-flying enthusiasts from all over India and abroad. Expert kite-flyers use a thread known as manja for their kites. These are different from the usual ones used by amateurs. Kite fights can involve accidents, so it is advisable for children to fly kites only under adult supervision.