The sky is filled with dazzling colorful kites that come from all around the globe. The International Kite Festival is celebrated along the same day when Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan is celebrated i.e. on 14th January. Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited sponsors the festival. The festival is held either at Sardar Patel Stadium or the Police Stadium.
People eagerly wait for the International Kite Festival, and special excitement is seen in youngsters. International Kite Festival attracts kite enthusiasts from all over the world to gather here on the day to enjoy and test their kite flying skills.
The festival symbolizes the onset of autumn. People irrespective of caste, creed, sex, region, or religion participate in the IKF. Thus it inculcates the spirit of brotherhood and togetherness among the common men as well as they get the opportunity to meet foreigners.
The Patang Bazaar is the hot spot for the youth during this festival. The sky looks gorgeous with kites in innumerable tones, designs, and shapes of the kites being flown in the air. During this festive occasion, the markets provide you with distinctive varieties of kites, differing in color, design, and style. Thus, there is a multitude of options available for you to choose from.
Highlights
- Kite Flying: The skies are filled with thousands of kites of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Enthusiasts from around the world participate, showcasing their unique and creative kites.
- Competitions: There are various kite-flying competitions, including kite battles where participants try to cut the strings of their competitors’ kites.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional music, dance performances, and food stalls offer a rich cultural experience.
- Workshops: Workshops are available for beginners and enthusiasts to learn about kite-making and flying techniques.
- Food and Craft Stalls: A variety of local snacks, sweets, and crafts are available, offering a taste of Gujarati culture.
- Join the Kite Flying: Bring your kite or buy one from local vendors. It’s a great opportunity to try kite flying for yourself.
- Explore Local Attractions: Visit nearby attractions such as the Sabarmati Ashram, Akshardham Temple, and the Calico Museum of Textiles.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Try traditional Gujarati dishes like dhokla, khandvi, and thepla at local eateries.
The International Kite Festival in Gujarat, India, is closely tied to the religious and cultural significance of the festival it celebrates: Uttarayan or Makar Sankranti.
Religious Significance of Uttarayan/Makar Sankranti
1. What is Uttarayan/Makar Sankranti?- Uttarayan (also known as Makar Sankranti) marks the day the sun begins its northward journey into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) after the winter solstice.
- It is considered the beginning of the longer days of the year as the sun moves from south to north.
- Sun God Worship: Uttarayan is associated with the worship of the Sun God (Surya), who is believed to bring prosperity, good health, and peace.
- Harvest Festival: It is a harvest festival celebrated to give thanks for the crops and pray for a good harvest in the coming year.
- Spiritual Significance: The transition of the sun symbolizes the transition from darkness to light, which is seen as a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment.
- Bhishma Pitamaha’s Passing: In the Mahabharata, it is believed that Bhishma Pitamaha waited for Uttarayan to pass away because he wished to die during this auspicious period.
- Sun’s Journey: According to Hindu mythology, during this time, the sun's northern movement signifies the end of the winter season and the arrival of warmer days.
Cultural Practices During Uttarayan/Makar Sankranti
1. Kite Flying- Symbol of Joy and Celebration: Kite flying is a central activity during the festival, symbolizing the spirit of freedom and joy. The vibrant colors of the kites represent the hope for a bright future.
- Tilgul: Special sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery, such as tilgul, are exchanged among friends and family. These are believed to symbolize good wishes and positive thoughts.
- Other Foods: Traditional foods include khichdi, undhiyu, and chikki.
- Family and Friends: People gather with family and friends to celebrate, share meals, and participate in various festive activities.
Regional Celebrations
1. Gujarat- Ahmedabad’s Kite Festival: The city is known for its grand kite-flying event that draws participants from around the world.
- Local Customs: People fly kites from rooftops, cook special dishes, and enjoy community celebrations.
- Maharashtra: Known for its Tilgul sweets and traditional practices.
- Punjab: Celebrated as Lohri, with bonfires and dance.
- South India: Known as Pongal, which includes a four-day celebration with special foods and rituals.
Legends and Stories of Uttarayan/Makar Sankranti
1. Bhishma Pitamaha’s Passing (Mahabharata Legend)-
Story: According to the Mahabharata, Bhishma Pitamaha, a revered elder of the Kuru dynasty, chose to leave his mortal body only during the period of Uttarayan. He had the boon of choosing the time of his death and decided to wait for this auspicious period.
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Significance: Bhishma’s choice to pass away during Uttarayan symbolizes the belief that death during this time leads to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). It reflects the idea that the sun’s northward journey is spiritually beneficial.
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Story: In Hindu mythology, the demon Surapadma was defeated by Lord Murugan, the son of Shiva and Parvati. It is said that after this victory, Lord Murugan celebrated by offering a special feast to the Sun God.
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Significance: This story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is commemorated during Uttarayan as a time of joy and celebration.
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Story: King Suryavarman, a devotee of the Sun God, performed a grand yagna (ritual sacrifice) during Uttarayan to seek blessings for his kingdom’s prosperity. His devotion and the success of the yagna are celebrated as part of the festival.
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Significance: This legend emphasizes the importance of devotion and rituals during Uttarayan to achieve personal and communal well-being.
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Story: According to some regional stories, a great flood destroyed the world, and the Sun God intervened to restore order. The arrival of Makar Sankranti marked the end of the flood and the beginning of a new era of prosperity.
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Significance: This story highlights the Sun God’s role as a savior and renewer, symbolizing hope and new beginnings during the festival.
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Story: During the Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu pilgrimage, Makar Sankranti is considered an auspicious time for the sacred dip in the holy rivers. It is believed that this act purifies the soul and brings spiritual benefits.
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Significance: The connection between Makar Sankranti and Kumbh Mela reflects the festival’s broader spiritual importance and the significance of sacred waters.
Popular Festivals and Celebrations Related to These Legends
1. Uttarayan in Gujarat- Activities: Kite flying, cultural performances, and traditional foods.
- Special Events: Community kite flying competitions and religious rituals.
- Punjab: Lohri, celebrated with bonfires and dance.
- Tamil Nadu: Pongal, a four-day festival with special dishes and rituals.
- Kolkata: Poush Mela, a fair with traditional crafts and foods.
Religious and Cultural Practices Inspired by the Legends
- Rituals: People perform pujas (prayers) to honor the Sun God and seek his blessings.
- Festive Foods: Special dishes like tilgul, khichdi, and undhiyu are prepared and enjoyed.
- Community Activities: Kite flying symbolizes freedom and joy, reflecting the legends of triumph and renewal.