Independence Day: Kite flying tradition lives on

People thronging the rooftops and a sky full of kites is a common sight each Independence Day across the country. This year is no different with several kite clubs holding competitions to celebrate the day.
Nibhul Pathak of Kite Club India, Ahmedabad told PTI that kite flying is a tradition followed in north India, particularly in Delhi, Lucknow, Muradabad and Bareilly.
"The tradition of flying kites with messages written on them is very old. In 1927, freedom fighters flew kites written with 'Simon, Go Back' to protest against the British rule," Pathak said.
The trend of writing messages on kites clearly hasn't waned, with kites bearing messages of "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" soaring high in the sky.

Bollywood and cartoon-themed kites are also popular among buyers, said Mohammed Imran, who has been coming to Delhi for last 20 years to sell kites.
He said that each year kites with latest film posters and actors are in huge demand.

"This year there are kites with Aamir Khan's 'Dangal', Shah Rukh Khan's 'Raees'. We also have kites with cartoon characters like 'Doraemon' printed on them.
"PM Modi can also be found on many kites along with photos of the Rs 500 and Rs 2000 currency notes," Imran said.
Talking about the kite flying competition to be held on August 15, Gufran Mohammad of Modern Kite Club said that several teams will be taking part in the competition.

"Usually 32 teams take part in the competition with seven people in each team. With 12 kites given to each person, the team that cuts all the opponent kites first wins.
"There are tournaments as well, with quarter final, semifinal and final matches with trophies and cash prizes to win," he said.