Design Resource
Kite
The Festival of Makar Sankranti
by
Prof. Bibhudutta Baraland Antony William
Introduction
The festival of “Makarsankranti“, also known as “Uttarayan” is celebrated on 14th and 15th of January across Gujarat with great enthusiasm. Majority of the craftsmen occupied in this craft belongs to the Muslim Community. There are various processes involved in making a single kite. Each process is carried out by various people specializing in it. In modern times kites are usedas a communicative mediums to spread social messages. The craft involves both men and women depending on the intricate nature of the work. There are innumerable design patterns used to decorate the kites making this festival very vibrant and joyous. Kite flying is a cultural passion in Gujarat. Kites carry the language of design, aesthetics, style, decoration etc. Kite makers compete with each other on these parameters.
