Makar Sankranti Fervour Grips Indore Markets, Kite Lovers Throng Shops | FP Photo
Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Makar Sankranti is not just a harvest festival. It is also an occasion when the sky becomes a canvas of colour, dotted with kites of all hues and shapes as people gleefully engage in tangles and enter competitions. In the city too, enthusiasm among people for Makar Sankranti is at its peak.
Children and even adults are flocking to kite shops to pick out their favourites. The streets are lively with discussions about kite flying competitions and rooftop gatherings planned for the festival. Kites of all shapes and sizes have made their way to the shops, with options ranging from tiny 1-inch kites to massive 17-18 feet-long ones with elaborate tails.
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Prices of kites in Indore vary from as low as Rs 15 to as high as Rs 250, catering to every kite enthusiast’s needs. Zakir from Mayur Collection, a kite shop in the city, shared, “We have an extensive range of kites, including 1-inch chakri kites and 17-foot-long tailed kites. Preparations for Makar Sankranti start two to three months in advance. Along with traditional paper kites, we also offer parachute kites and special varieties, like kites that can be flown at night using candles.”
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He expressed optimism about this year’s kite trade, expecting a good turnout of buyers. The market also has innovative and special kites that are gaining popularity. Glow-in-the-dark kites and parachute-style designs are some of the unique options attracting customers. With kites available in vibrant colours, creative designs and sturdy materials, the festival’s spirit is clearly visible in every corner of the market.
This year, kite traders predict a substantial business surge, with an estimated turnover of Rs 4-5 crore. To note, Indore is a hub of high-quality kites, as its kites are also in demand in neighbouring districts and cities. “Makar Sankranti is not just a festival; it’s an emotion for us. Flying kites with family and friends is the highlight of the year,” said Rashmi Gupta, a customer.
