New Delhi: As we settle into the new year, there is much to look forward to—from the surprises the year might hold to the progress of our yearly goals. Another exciting aspect of the new year is the arrival of festivals. In January, people across India celebrate Makar Sankranti, one of the most significant harvest festivals in the country. This festival is dedicated to the Sun God and marks the sun’s transition from the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makara), which gives the festival its name.

In the spirit of Makar Sankranti, devotees fly kites, take holy dips in the river Ganges, host feasts, and participate in charitable activities. The ancient tradition of kite flying on this day continues to thrive. This Makar Sankranti, you can join in the celebrations by making your own kites at home and flying them on Tuesday, January 14th, the day of the harvest festival.

Kite-Making Materials

You will need the following materials to make your own kite for Makar Sankranti:

1. Bamboo Sticks: These are used to create the kite’s frame. Thin, flexible bamboo is ideal for constructing the body and crossbars.
2. Kite Paper or Tissue Paper: This is the main material for the kite’s sail. Brightly coloured paper or lightweight plastic sheets are excellent choices for decoration and durability.
3. Glue: A strong adhesive, such as white glue or wood glue, is essential for bonding the bamboo sticks and paper.
4. String (Kite Thread): Use a strong, durable thread for flying the kite. Some threads are coated with adhesive for added robustness.
5. Scissors: Scissors are required to cut kite paper, thread, and bamboo sticks to the desired size.
6. Ruler: A ruler helps measure and ensure the kite’s frame is symmetrical and well-balanced.
7. Craft Knife: A craft knife is ideal for precision cutting, particularly for small sections of bamboo or paper.
8. Thread or Yarn (for Frame Binding): This is used to securely tie the bamboo sticks together at the joints.
9. Kite Stickers or Decorative Materials: Add flair to your kite using stickers, glitter, paint, or fabric embellishments.
10. Tape or Double-Sided Tape: Use tape for temporarily securing the kite parts during assembly or for attaching extra decorations.
11. Stapler (optional): A stapler can be used to reinforce areas where the frame joins, such as the spine.
12. Tail Material (eg, Cloth or Plastic): Use strips of cloth or plastic to create a stabilising tail for your kite.
13. Needle and Thread (optional): This can be used for stitching parts of the kite, especially if using fabric for the body or tail.
14. Sandpaper: Sandpaper smooths the bamboo sticks, making them easier to handle and assemble.
15. Paint or Colouring Materials: Add vibrant colours or patterns to personalise your kite.
16. Fishing Line or Kite Reel: This helps you wind the kite string onto a reel, making it easier to control the kite while flying.

Kite-Making at Home

Follow these steps to create your kite for Makar Sankranti:

Prepare the Frame

• Cut two bamboo sticks: one for the spine (approximately 3 feet long) and another for the crossbar (about 2 feet long).
• Smooth the edges of the bamboo sticks using sandpaper or a craft knife.

Assemble the Frame

• Attach the crossbar to the spine using thread or glue, positioning it about one-third of the way down the spine for balance.
• Secure the joints with thread or yarn to ensure stability.

Cut the Kite Paper

• Lay the kite paper flat and cut it into a rectangular shape, leaving a 2–3-inch border around the bamboo frame.

Attach the Paper

• Apply glue along the bamboo frame, then carefully press the kite paper over it, ensuring the surface is smooth and free of wrinkles.
• Fold the paper edges over the bamboo and secure them with glue or tape.

Add the Tail

• Cut strips of cloth or paper for the tail and attach them to the bottom of the spine using glue or tape. The tail helps stabilize the kite while flying.

Decorate the Kite

• Use stickers, glitter, paint, or other decorative materials to add a personal touch to your kite.

Attach the String

• Secure a kite string to the top of the spine and wind it onto a reel for easy handling.

Fly Your Kite

• On a windy day, take your kite outdoors and let it soar into the sky!

Kite-Making Ideas for Competitions

Get creative with these unique kite-making ideas for competitions this Makar Sankranti:

• Themed Kite with Tail: Design a themed kite with a decorative tail, such as a mermaid tail, ribbon streamers, or a flag. The tail enhances the kite’s aesthetic appeal and performance.
• Abstract Art Kite: Create a kite featuring abstract designs, using splashes of bright colours and fluid patterns reminiscent of modern art.
• Animal-Themed Kite: Make a kite shaped like an animal, such as a dragon, butterfly, or eagle. Use colourful paper and add details like wings or scales for a realistic effect.
• Pop Culture Kite: Design a kite inspired by pop culture, featuring characters, logos, or symbols from movies, cartoons, or music.
• Eco-Friendly Kite: Build a kite using eco-friendly materials like recycled paper, bamboo, and natural fibres. This environmentally conscious option is both creative and meaningful.

Kite-Making for Kids

Here are some fun and engaging kite-making ideas for children:

• Superhero Kite: Design a kite with a superhero theme, featuring symbols, logos, or characters inspired by comic books or original ideas.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Kite: Use glow-in-the-dark paint or tape to make a kite that shines during evening flights.
• Space-Themed Kite: Craft a kite with a cosmic design, incorporating elements like rockets, stars, and planets. Use glitter and dark colours to create a striking outer space effect.

Embrace the spirit of Makar Sankranti by crafting your own kite, celebrating traditions, and enjoying the festivities with creativity and joy.