14 January,2014 12:41 PM IST | | MiDDAY Correspondent
Today, January 14, Makar Sankranti is the day when hundreds of kites dot the sky and like all joyous festivals, this one is an occasion for camaraderie and friendly competition with your opponents over whose kite can fly higher, and whose kite can be cut. Yet, it would be wise to throw your kite but not caution to the wind.
Today, January 14, Makar Sankranti is the day when hundreds of kites dot the sky and like all joyous festivals, this one is an occasion for camaraderie and friendly competition with your opponents over whose kite can fly higher, and whose kite can be cut. Yet, it would be wise to throw your kite but not caution to the wind.
One often sees that Sankranti means that young people and the not so young get caught up in the fervour of competitive kite flying, which can result in tragic consequences.
Like, one has read so many times of people getting cut by the kite string (manjha). In extreme cases, throats have been slit. One remembers a cyclist getting caught in a kite flyers manjha and his throat getting cut as a result. Kite enthusiasts need to stick to open spaces, or be extra careful of the people around.
Also, since so many kites are flown from open building terraces, there have been casualties. Kite flyers have leaned in too far over low terrace walls in their preoccupation and eagerness.
Also if one's kite gets caught in a power line, it is important to know that you must not touch the power line or the kite. It is better to abandon the kite altogether. Enjoy Makar Sankranti and everything that comes with it, including keeping your kite under control.
It is important that you be in control of your kite, and don't let your kite control you.
Kites are light but the responsibility on the flyer is heavy. Ensure that you shoulder it well.
