Gujarat : The joyous skies of Gujarat, usually filled with colorful kites during the Makar Sankranti festival, turned tragically dark this year. Seven lives were lost across the state due to accidents related to kite strings, casting a grim shadow over the festive celebrations.

The fatalities were reported from Dahod, Panchmahal, Bhavnagar, and Valsad districts. The victims, ranging from young children to young adults, lost their lives in various ways, highlighting the dangers associated with kite flying, particularly the use of sharp, coated strings known as 'manjha'.

In a heart-wrenching incident, a 10-year-old boy in Dahod met his end while trying to retrieve a kite stuck in an electric wire. The impact of a strong shock electrocuted him, leaving behind a gaping void in his family's celebration.

Elsewhere, a 6-year-old boy in Valsad fell from the rooftop while flying a kite, while a 7-year-old boy in Panchmahal became a victim of manjha's deadly edge, succumbing to injuries inflicted on his throat.

The tragedy extended beyond kite flying itself. A 20-year-old in Vadodara lost his life on a two-wheeler, entangled in a straw-laden manjha that pierced his neck. In Rajkot, another young man tragically succumbed to a fall from his rooftop while engaged in festive kite-flying.

These heartbreaking incidents stand as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly harmless traditions. The havoc of manjha, in particular, had already begun weeks before Makar Sankranti, claiming lives in Kheda and Nadiad districts as early as November and January.

As investigations into these tragedies continue, questions arise regarding the effectiveness of measures taken to regulate and control the use of dangerous manjha. The festive spirit of Makar Sankranti deserves to be celebrated with joy and safety, and addressing the threat posed by unsafe kite strings becomes an urgent priority to prevent further loss of life in future celebrations.

Protecting revelers from the dangers of sharp kite strings, the Surat City Police Commissioner has issued a temporary ban on two-wheelers on all overbridges (except Tapi River and railway bridges) during the upcoming Uttarayan festival on January 14th and 15th.

This proactive measure aims to prevent injuries and fatalities caused by "killer manja", the abrasive kite strings notorious for cutting through unprotected skin and even causing fatal throat injuries. While Uttarayan celebrates the joy of kite flying, the festivities can turn tragic if safety precautions are not taken seriously.

Uttarayan's Dark Side: A Reminder of Tragic Accidents

Sadly, the dangers of sharp manja are not merely theoretical. Just hours before the announcement, a 22-year-old woman, Dikshitaben Ghanshyambhai Thummar, tragically lost her life after her throat was cut by a kite string while riding her scooter on Nana Varachha Bridge. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter measures to prevent such preventable deaths.

Two-Wheeler Ban with Exceptions:

The two-wheeler ban aims to minimize the risk of manja-related injuries by keeping vulnerable riders off the open and exposed pathways of overbridges. However, the policy acknowledges the need for flexibility, exempting two-wheelers equipped with safety guards for added protection. These guards act as shields, deflecting the dangerous strings and potentially saving lives.

Police Patrols and Public Awareness:

Alongside the bridge ban, the Surat City Police is also stepping up its efforts to ensure public safety during Uttarayan. Special campaigns are being launched to raise awareness about the dangers of manja and encourage the use of safety guards. Police teams will be actively patrolling roads and bridges, apprehending individuals using illegal kite strings and enforcing the two-wheeler ban.

Uttarayan can be a joyous celebration, but prioritizing safety is paramount. This temporary ban on two-wheelers, coupled with increased police vigilance and public awareness campaigns, are commendable steps towards a safer and happier festival for all in Surat.

Let's fly kites, not lives. Celebrate Uttarayan responsibly!

A Symphony of Color Takes Flight

The banks of the Suryaputri Tapi River in Surat witnessed a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant hues and joyous cheers as the International Kite Festival, organized by Gujarat Tourism Department, Municipal Corporation, and District Administration, took flight. Starting at 9 am at the Adajan Riverfront, the festival saw a remarkable participation of 97 kite flyers, including 37 international-level masters, showcasing their artistry and skill against the backdrop of the glistening river.

Devotion Takes Center Stage

A unique and heartwarming aspect of this year's festival was the palpable enthusiasm surrounding the upcoming consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Kites adorned with images of India and the Ram Temple became the instant center of attraction, drawing gasps of awe and whispers of “Jai Shri Ram” from the enthralled audience. The tunes of Ramdhun and Jayshree Ram filled the air, further amplifying the devotional fervor, with even the kite flyers swaying to the rhythmic melodies.

A Fusion of Tradition and Global Flair

The festival wasn't just about devotion; it was also a platform for showcasing diverse kite-flying skills and cultural exchange. Big kites painted the sky with breathtaking stunts, while international participants stole the show with their mastery of Garba, the traditional Gujarati dance. School children added to the joyous atmosphere, giggling and clapping as they watched the spectacle unfold.

A Canvas of Dreams: Where Imagination Takes Flight

From intricate geometric patterns to whimsical animal figures, the festival showcased a kaleidoscope of kite designs. Indian and foreign participants alike presented their unique styles, filling the sky with a mesmerizing tapestry of creativity. This year, however, the Ayodhya Ram Temple kites stood out, their majestic presence serving as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage of India.

The International Kite Festival in Surat wasn't just a competition; it was a celebration of color, skill, and cultural harmony. As the kites danced in the wind, they painted the sky with dreams, hope, and a spirit of unity, leaving behind a trail of joyous memories for all who witnessed this enchanting spectacle.

Surat – As Makar Sankranti approaches, Surat's skies are gearing up for a vibrant dance of kites, carrying not just playful threads but also fervent devotion. While political figures and celebrities typically grace kite designs, this year, the theme has shifted. The air buzzes with excitement for Ayodhya's upcoming Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav, and the celebration finds its way onto kites adorned with Lord Shri Ram's image and the Ayodhya temple.

Ram Rises Above: A Shift in Tradition

Gone are the days when Bollywood stars and politicians dominated kite skies. This year, Surti kite enthusiasts are embracing a deeper connection. With Ayodhya's landmark event on the horizon, kites bearing the image of Lord Shri Ram and the Ayodhya temple have become the hottest trend. Kite markets across the city report a surge in demand for these specially-designed kites, reflecting the deep-seated faith and anticipation surrounding the occasion.

A 7-Foot Masterpiece: Devotion Takes Flight

The fervor has sparked creativity, leading to breathtaking designs. Among them stands a true marvel – a 7-foot behemoth showcasing the majestic Ayodhya temple with Lord Rama himself standing tall with his bow. Crafted with intricate zari work, this masterpiece has become the talk of the town, with pre-orders exceeding 50 within days. Even though production has stopped due to its complexity, the kite maker expresses overwhelming joy at the unexpected demand and the opportunity to celebrate Lord Ramlala's homecoming.

Beyond Business: A Celebration of Belief

The rising popularity of these devotional kites goes beyond mere sales. Surat's kite makers, artisans, and enthusiasts speak of a sense of deep satisfaction in being part of this unique celebration. As one artisan aptly put it, "We enjoy making kites with images of Lord Shri Ram. Besides, we are also very happy that Lord Ramlala is going to reside in Ayodhya."

This Makar Sankranti, Surat's skies will not only witness a colorful spectacle of kites dancing on the wind, but also carry aloft a wave of devotion and anticipation for the historic event in Ayodhya. The joy of the festival intertwines with the joy of faith, creating a truly heartwarming spectacle that takes flight on the vibrant threads of hope and prayer.

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], January 8: On the occasion of the inauguration of the International Kite Festival 2024, Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel said that the economy of the country is reaching new heights through the development of industries and business in the country as a result of the forward-thinking ideology and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi. He added that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai, the kite of the country’s development is flying high in the sky.

Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel launched the International Kite Festival 2024 by flying the tri-colour balloon in the sky from Ahmedabad.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel said that the Prime Minister of the country and the then Chief Minister of the state Shri Narendrabhai Modi started the Vibrant Gujarat Summit two decades ago with the vision of flying the kite of all-round development of Gujarat in the sky of the world. The 10th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 is starting from next week, he added.

Further, the Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister has developed the tradition of ‘Pro-People approach’ so that the common man gets the benefit of economic progress, income growth, and employment generation.

Speaking about the International Kite Festival, the Chief Minister said that the then Chief Minister and the Prime Minister of the country Shri Narendrabhai Modi has given the direction to celebrate the International Kite Festival every year by making the popular kite festival of Uttarayan world-famous with a unique vision. Today, this kite festival of Gujarat has become popular worldwide. The success of the festival is evidenced by the fact that kite flyers from all over the country flock to participate in this popular festival every year, he added.

Speaking further, the Chief Minister said that our Prime Minister has a vision of 5T. 5T stands for Talent, Tradition, Tourism, Trade, and Technology, a unique vision has been given for the overall development of Gujarat. To make this vision of the Prime Minister a reality, we have added 5T’s to all the attractions of the festival through public participation, making a new way for development, he added.

Talking about the development of Gujarat, the Chief Minister said that, be it the vibrant Navratri festival or the International Kite Festival, Gujarat has always made people feel its culture and power. Such programs strengthen the economy of the state. Not only this, the financial condition of the people who earn and eat daily also improves, and other ancillary employment opportunities also increase, the Chief Minister further added.

Talking about the kite industry of Gujarat, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel said that the kite business of Gujarat is increasing gradually. With a share of 40%, Gujarat has become the largest kite-producing market in the country. Along with this, today kite business has also become a support of working people. Today many people are getting employment with the kite-making business. Along with the kites, many trades are associated with it like strings, spinners, glue strips, Talasankali, and Undhiyu.

Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai has made the tourist places of Gujarat a favourite destination of the country and abroad. Under the guidance of Shri Narendrabhai, all the tourist places of Gujarat are gradually developing. In the year 2007, the then Chief Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi mentioned Gujarat’s Dhordo and said that world tourism will be established in Dhordo and people from home and abroad will come to Gujarat to see this place. The Prime Minister’s words have become a reality today. It is a matter of pride for all of us that Dhordo of Kutch has been awarded the Best Tourism Village Award by the World Tourism Organization UNWTO.

Talking about the International Kite Festival 2024, the Chief Minister said that Kite Festival has been organized in various cities of Gujarat this year. All the festivals are being celebrated preserving the ancient heritage of the state. A theme pavilion showcasing the history of kites has also been set up at the International Kite Festival. Along with this, keeping in mind the Vocal for Local, craft market stalls and food and drink stalls for kite enthusiasts have also been set up for the purpose of enabling the artisans of the state to sell their handmade goods at their doorsteps, the Chief Minister further added.

The Chief Minister expressed the belief that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi, the kite of the country’s development is flying high in the sky, and the kite of holistic development of Gujarat has also flown high.

While delivering the welcome speech at the International Kite Festival, Tourism Minister Shri Mulubhai Bera said that Uttarayan is a day to worship Sun God. The International Kite Festival started by the then Chief Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi attracts kite flyers from all over the country every year. Today, under the guidance of Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, this kite festival has been started in other tourist places and cities of the state as well.

The minister said that the kite festival started under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi has become a global festival today. Talking about the development of tourist places, he added that the state government is working to boost the pace of tourism by developing many historical, religious, and tourist places in Gujarat and creating infrastructure.

He further said that it is a matter of joy that the 69th Filmfare Award is being held in our Gujarat in the near future. Gujarat is scaling new heights of development under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi, he added.

Aditya Stuti Vandana was presented by Rishi Kumars on this occasion. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries greeted the parade of kite flyers from various countries of the world and various states of India. Apart from this, a dance performance of ‘Gujarat Means Growth’ and ‘Gujaratna Vikas no Patang’ was presented by the Department of Youth Services, Sports, and Culture.

The International Kite Festival was attended by Minister of State for Cottage Industries and Cooperation Mr. Jagdish Vishwakarma, Mayor of Ahmedabad Mrs. Pratibhabahen Jain, invited guests from the country and abroad, kite flyers, diplomatic representatives, local MLAs, AMC office bearers, councillors, and other dignitaries.

Noteworthy that the International Kite Festival-2024 is being held at Sabarmati Riverfront, Vallabhasadan in Ahmedabad from 7th to 14th January in which 153 international kite flyers from 55 countries, 68 national kite flyers from 12 states, 865 kite flyers from 23 cities of Gujarat are going to participate. These kite-flyers will attract attention by flying kites of various shapes in the sky.

Like every year, this year also Kite festival is organized in various cities and tourist places. Kite festival has also been organized at Vadodara on January 8, Ektanagar and Dwarka on January 9, Surat and Rajkot on January 10, Dhordo and Vadnagar on January 11, Nadabet on January 12.

During the International Kite Festival from 7th to 13th January, cultural programs have also been organized from 7 pm to 9 pm every day. The flow of domestic and foreign tourists has increased in the state due to the organization of the International Kite Festival. This type of planning by the tourism department has created employment opportunities at the local level, thereby strengthening the economy as well. People associated with tourism are getting direct and indirect employment which has also increased the standard of living of the people.

If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

A sea of colorful kites soared above Lalbhai Contractor Stadium in Surat, carrying not just wishes for the new year, but a critical message: the gift of life through organ donation.

More than 5 lakh people in India lose their lives each year due to organ shortage. But amidst the festive spirit of the kite festival, Donate Life, a leading organ donation organization in Gujarat, organized a powerful event to raise awareness and celebrate the selfless act of giving life.

"Organ Donor Family One, Together We Give Life" brought together families who have donated organs of their loved ones, extending hope and second chances to countless patients. Through poignant displays, message-bearing kites, and personal testimonies, the event resonated with the attendees, many of whom took the pledge to become organ donors themselves.

"With every organ donated, a hundred stories bloom. We are here to express our gratitude to these families who have chosen to light the lamp of life even in the darkness of their own grief," shared Nileshbhai Mandlewala of Donate Life.

The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries like Chief Commissioner of GST Pankaj Singh, Mayor Dakshesh Mavani, MLA Arvindbhai Rana, and prominent figures from social, political, academic, and industrial spheres. Their support echoed the importance of organ donation as a critical pillar of our community.

But the true heroes of the day were the donor families, their resilience and compassion inspiring a wave of pledges from 167 individuals who committed to giving life after death. Each pledge held the promise of a brighter future, a future where the gift of organs becomes a common thread woven into the fabric of our society.

Donate Life's tireless efforts, for 365 days a year for the past 18 years, are paving the way for a more life-giving tomorrow. This event, with its vibrant kites and powerful message, served as a testament to their dedication and the unwavering spirit of hope that fuels their mission.

As the kites danced in the sky, their colorful tails carried a message far beyond the joyous festivity: a message of life, of hope, and of a future where organ donation becomes a symbol of our shared humanity.

For more information on Donate Life and their invaluable work, visit their website: https://www.donatelife.org.in/

Remember, one organ donor can save up to eight lives. Consider pledging your support and join the movement for a healthier, more life-giving tomorrow.