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Why do we fly kite on Independence Day?
But, why are kites flown on Independence Day? It is often linked to the freedom movement, where protest messages against the British were written on kites. Kite-flying is followed as a passion and a social activity in India, with people flying kites for festivals such as Makar Sakranti and Basant Panchami.
What is the history of kite flying?
The earliest written account of kite flying is in China in 200 BC, supporting China’s claim to the origin of the kite. The Chinese General Han Hsin of the Han Dynasty flew a kite over the walls of a city he was attacking to measure how far his army would have to tunnel to reach past the defenses.
What is the importance of Independence Day in India?
Independence Day is significant as it commemorates the valour and spirit of the freedom fighters who fought for the independence of the nation from British rule. The day is recognised as that of national pride and honour, with Prime Ministers hoisting the flag and addressing the country from the Red Fort every year.
Why did people originally start the kite festival?
Kites were brought to Japan about the 7th century by Buddhist monks. They were used to avert evil spirits and to insure rich harvests. Kite flying became very popular in Japan during the Edo period. For the first time Japanese people below the samurai class were allowed to fly kites.
Why people fly kites in India?
Colourful kites adorn the sky from the morning of Makar Sankranti. This day also marks the end of winter and celebrates the harvest of the Rabi crop. According to some beliefs, the tradition of kite flying on Makar Sankranti is being carried out so that people are exposed to the sun rays.
What does kite flying Symbolise in India?
Since then, kite flying has become a tradition for Indians on Independence Day to praise autonomy from British tenet. Besides spreading out the national flag on August 15, Indians get occupied with kite flying as an expression of freedom, joy and patriotism. “The sky used to turn into a rainbow.
When did kites appear in India?
Two monks in particular are considered responsible for bringing kites to India. The first is Fa-Hien, who travelled to India in the early 5th century in search of Buddhist texts. The second was Hiuen Tsang who arrived later, in the 7th century, and spent 17 years travelling and documenting India.
When did kites originate?
It is thought that the earliest use of kites was among the Chinese, approximately 2,800 years ago. The kite was said to be the invention of the famous 5th century BC Chinese philosophers Mozi and Lu Ban. By 549 AD, paper kites were being flown — in that year a paper kite was used as a message for a rescue mission.
What is the purpose of kites?
Kites have been used for human flight, military applications, science and meteorology, photography, lifting radio antennas, generating power, aerodynamics experiments, and much more.