KITE FLYING IN SIKKIM: A LOST JOY
by Kesang Pakhrin :The history of Kite can be traced back to thousand of years ago that originated in China . The Kite during those days was used as means of sending message during the time of war. Some other sources also list uses of kite for measuring distances, testing of direction of winds and signaling for military operations. It has its own story and carries its own significance from places to places. In India , the kite further evolved into the fighter kite known as the “Patang”. Here, the annual kite running competitions are held every year on the day of Makar Sankranti. Kite festivals are held at different countries, which is of ritual significance for the people of the respective countries. Now coming back to our state Sikkim , I often wonder and look back to the day when I was a kid. The winter season of December and January, time for winter vacation for every school, used to be full of fun and enjoyment. Flying kite, it was how we used to spend most of our holiday...