Sankranti is a grand festival of harvest celebrated in India. which usually falls on the 14th of January every year. It is a three-day festival. The first day of this festive season is 'Bhogi', while the second day is 'Makara Sankranti' and the third and last day is called 'Kanumu'. Sankranti is called 'Pongal' in the state of Tamilnadu. In Rajasthan and Gujarat, people offer thousands of colorful oblations in the form of beautiful kites, and it has become a well-known international event in Gujarat. Likewise, in the state of Telangana, Kite flying is associated with this harvest festival in a big way.

The Tradition of Kite Flying

Telangana is a region, considered unique due to its geographical location, with influence of different cultures. Moreover, the cosmopolitan nature of the city with people from different parts of India making the state their home has given rise to a unique culture, where the Sankranti festival is celebrated in North Indian as well as South Indian styles.

Flying Kites is a long-cherished tradition of Telangana, with the skyline of Hyderabad and other towns and villages filled with Kites of various sizes and colours. The kite flying tradition during Sankranti festival period has been taking place for many decades in Telangana State. It is no wonder that this tradition has given a fillip to Kite festivals that brings together Kite enthusiasts under one-roof. It is a memorable festival season in the state, when hundreds of enthusiasts would assemble with friends and family to play the festival with colourful hues, dotting the skyline.

4th Telangana International Kite Festival 2019

The International Kite Festival 2019 is being organized by Telangana Tourism with great fanfare in January, 2019. The success of Kite Festivals, organized in 2016, 2017 and 2018 has brought a new identity to the tradition of Kite flying. Now, Hyderabad is all set to host the International Kite Festival from January 13-15th, 2019 with enthusiastic participation from many national and international flying clubs. The festival celebrations reflect a rich tapestry of culture, kites and craft that Hyderabad is known for. The festival will bring together international teams of professional kite-flyers, along with thousands of kite-enthusiasts from all over the country in Parade Grounds.