The Story of how Kite flying became associated with Sankranti

The major reason for flying kites on Makar Sankranti is related to the Hindu religion and mythology. Makar Sankranti is dedicated to the worship of Surya, the sun god, who is considered to be the source of life and energy. Flying kites is a way of expressing gratitude and devotion to the sun god, and also symbolizes the ascent of the sun and the end of the winter solstice. Some people also believe that flying kites helps the soul of the deceased to reach heaven, as the kites are seen as a medium of communication between the earth and the sky.

 The association of kite flying with Makar Sankranti is deeply rooted in the belief that the higher the kite soars, the closer it gets to the divine, capturing the essence of the festival's spiritual significance.

According to some experts, the tradition of flying kites on Makar Sankranti has a scientific reason behind it. The festival falls in the winter season, when the weather is cold and dry, and people are prone to infections and illnesses. Flying kites exposes the body to the sun’s rays, which are believed to have healing and cleansing properties. The sun’s rays also stimulate the production of vitamin D, which boosts the immune system and prevents diseases. Moreover, flying kites also involves physical activity, which improves blood circulation and keeps the body warm.

 The rhythmic swaying of colorful kites in the sky became an integral part of Makar Sankranti festivities, symbolizing the joyous spirit of the changing seasons and the advent of warmer days.

In many regions of India, Makar Sankranti is marked by spirited kite flying competitions, adding an element of excitement and skill to the festivities. Participants showcase their kite-flying prowess, aiming to cut the strings of their opponents' kites in a friendly yet competitive environment. These competitions not only bring communities together but also foster a sense of camaraderie, with participants sharing tips, tricks, and stories while engaging in the exhilarating pursuit of mastering the art of kite flying.
                                                                                                                                                                                           While the association between kite flying and Makar Sankranti is widespread across India, each region adds its own unique flavor to the tradition. In Telangana, the Kite Festival attracts enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a breathtaking display of kites in various shapes and sizes and people engage in friendly kite-flying battles, showcasing the rich cultural diversity that defines Makar Sankranti celebrations across the country.

Here is a view on various shapes and sizes of patangs flown according to Telangana culture:

                                             

                                                                                                          

is called so because it contains egg-like symbols at the center foot of the perpendicular of two sticks.                                                     

                                                                                                                              

contains two dots anywhere on the kite.