In Gujarat, kite-making is a thriving industry tied to the Hindu festival Uttarayan, celebrating the end of winter. Mohammad Yunus, one of thousands of workers involved, crafts colorful kites for this occasion, which marks a significant livelihood source for many.
Also Read: Punjab Completely Bans Kite Flying and the Production of Dangerous Kite Strings
Gujarat produces 65% of India’s kites, with a market worth ₹6.5 billion. Over 130,000 people, including seasonal workers like Yunus, depend on this trade, even though the kite-flying season lasts just a few days in January.
Despite the festive joy, safety concerns persist. Harmful plastic strings lead to injuries and fatalities, with 18 deaths reported during this year’s festival. The government and communities are urged to address these risks.
