Makara Sankranti

Design Resource

Kites

A kite is a cultural symbol

Makara Sankranti

Preparation for Makara Sankranti

The arrival of Makara Sankranti is heralded by the coming up of several makeshift kite shops, shops selling sugarcane, freshly harvested groundnuts, stalks of grain, till laddoos, specially crafted earthen ware pots etc. All these items are the symbols of the festival. Though the kites jostle for space with many other items, they are the colourful symbols that engage and enchant the vision.

The kite shops are the most colourful in such a market place. Each shop displays its wares - the latest varieties of kites of all sizes and shapes, spindles, colourful threads and they beckon the kite flying enthusiasts, first timers, to purchase them.

Some shops temporarily stock kites and their accessories prior to the festival, so they have a crammed appearance. The shops offer the latest varieties of kites and spindles. Apart from the traditional materials of paper and wood, plastic is extensively used as can be seen from the different sized, multi coloured spindles.

The following images from a market place in Mumbai convey this spirit of Makara Sankranti.

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