Cultural ethnicity in the pink city

Makar Sankranti is a festival celebrated across India in different ways. The festival, also known as Sankrat, is celebrated in the month of January to mark the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) on its celestial path.

As a part of the festival, kite flying is observed as a traditional ritual where youngsters take part in large numbers. This year, Jaipur hosted the International Kite Festival from 14th January 2017 to 16th January 2017 at the Jal Mahal ground. There were around thirty kite flyers from various states across the country at the event that was witnessed by people from twenty-five countries. The participants exhibited their talent by flying multiple kites with one string. The sky was prolific with colorful kites of various designs, shapes and sizes, fluttering and cutting across each other above the rooftops and reaching the sky.

The preparations for the kite festival generally begin the previous night. On the day of the festival, the pink city of Jaipur is bestrewed with vibrant kites animating the sky for the most spectacular view. This marks the beginning of the year. With special delicacies like til-paati, gajak, kheer, ghevar, pakodi and puwa, the day is celebrated at every household’s terrace with booming music. Ornating the city with different and carefully picked kites, people of all age groups take part in this gala. Cultural programs, dance performances and the kite exhibition enrich the festival.

It was not just the kite festival but the sparkling festive spirit that intensifies the entire experience of any traveler. In addition, food is an integral part of any festival and Rajasthan, known for its exquisite delicacies, made the festival wholesome.