Photographs by Vijay Nathaniel

From Discourse 7

ABOUT THE JAIPUR KITE FESTIVAL

This festival of flying kites is one of the most auspicious occasion for Hindus.

Sankranti, unlike other festivals, is not dependent on the position of the moon, but on the position of the sun. On this day, the sun enters the zodiac sign capricorn.

Members of various communities – irrespective of cast or age – gather on rooftops or hang out of their windows. The city comes to a halt for the day. People gaze

up to the heavens instead of

down the street.

The entire family is connected to the festival celebration. The sky is full of colorful kites in various size and shapes until night.

– Vijay Nathaniel

INTRODUCTION BY ALI FUJINO

One of the best aspects of the world of kiting is that it encompasses the world. Experiencing kites means you travel, or as we say, “go with the wind.”

Over the years, we have had the pleasure of learning about kites of various countries and also meeting those special individuals who guide us through these kite encounters. Such is the case of Vijay Nathaniel, whose personal interest in the fighter kites of his country brought him to help with many of the wonderful Desert Kite Festivals orchestrated by his friend Ajay Prakash.

Vijay was one of our “India kite ambassadors,” meeting and assisting first time kite visitors to India and introducing us to the wonderful sights and sounds of the fighter kite. This was always done with the biggest of hearts, a volunteer who gave us endless attention.

Although we have not had the opportunity to see Vijay for the last four years, social media keeps us in touch. These photos are a grand example of how his heart and love for kiting has not strayed.

Enjoy!

Vijay Nathaniel

ABOVE: Indian kite maker Babu Khan at Chaugan Stadium. BELOW: A kite from the Babu Khan Collection. Khan kites are constructed of intricate tissue paper applique.

Vijay Nathaniel

ABOVE: View at the festival site at Chaugan Stadium.

BELOW: Officials at the festival site.

Vijay Nathaniel

ABOVE: Patang fighter kites displayed in one of the shops.

BELOW: Kite shop in Johri Bazar.

Vijay Nathaniel

ABOVE: The photographer’s niece wearing his jacket and cap. BELOW: The photographer and kite on a rooftop.