Dangers of kite fighting

The celebration of Poush Sankranti (the end of Bangla month Poush) popularly known as Shakrain or Ghuri Utsab brings life to the most congested alleys of the Old Dhaka. Flying colourful kites is one of the main attractions of this festival. The tradition of kite flying is believed to have started among the rich people. However, over the years, it has become a popular sport and has begun to reach the classes below. Kites flown are known to use a strong special string, which is made by applying glass powder on it (known as manja) to provide it sharpness like knife. This practice of using an abrasive thread for kite fighting has posed a great threat to birds and even humans.

The impact on birds, however, is much larger. Birds when in flight, fail to notice the fine glass-coated thread, get entangled in it and injure themselves causing fractures, damage of wings and injuries. At times, the glass pieces used in the manja get embedded in their bodies adding to the misery and eventual death. Additionally, these strings unlike their cotton counterpart do not lose its strength even after getting wet and hence stays for a long time in the environment, creating potential threat to the birds both local and migratory. So, before enjoying Shakrain or kite festival, we must give a second thought over our feathered friends and the harm we may cause to them by kite fighting.

Shahjahan Sirazi,

Malibagh, Dhaka,

[email protected]