The decline of traditional practices is an inevitable consequence of modernity, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the fading art of kite flying in the Jammu region. This once-cherished cultural activity, which was not merely a pastime but a festival of colours, creativity, and competition, is now rapidly disappearing. For generations, kite flying was an integral part of the social and cultural fabric of Jammu, symbolizing the spirit of freedom, community bonding, and regional pride. However, in the face of modern technology, changing lifestyles, and shifting values, this vibrant tradition is on the brink of extinction. The decline of kite flying among the youth of the Jammu region threatens to erase not only a beloved activity but also a significant cultural heritage that once united communities across generations and served as a vital expression of creativity and freedom during key festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Shri Krishna Janmashtami, and Makar Sankranti.
Historically, kite flying in the Jammu region was much more than a recreational activity. It was a deeply rooted cultural tradition that marked the celebration of various festivals, bringing together people of all ages, castes, and communities. The skies of Jammu were once adorned with kites of all shapes, sizes, and colours, each telling a story of the person who flew it. The thrill of the chase, the joy of cutting another’s kite, and the pride of seeing one’s kite fly the highest were experiences that transcended age and background. Festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Shri Krishna Janmashtami, and Makar Sankranti were synonymous with kite flying, where the activity was not just about the kites but also about the sense of community and shared celebration. The participation of families, friends, and neighbours created an atmosphere of camaraderie, where the competitive spirit was tempered by a shared sense of joy and togetherness. Raksha Bandhan, a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, saw kite flying as an essential part of the festivities. Sisters would tie the sacred thread, or Rakhi, on their brothers’ wrists, and in return, brothers would vow to protect them. After the rituals, the day would be spent flying kites, with brothers and sisters often teaming up to compete against other siblings and friends. The festival was not complete without the kites soaring in the sky, symbolizing the free-spirited nature of the bond between siblings. Similarly, Shri Krishna Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna, was celebrated with equal fervor. The mythological tales of Lord Krishna cutting down kites with his Sudarshan Chakra added a divine dimension to the practice, infusing it with a sense of devotion and cultural pride. Makar Sankranti, a harvest festival that marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, was perhaps the most significant for kite flying. The clear winter skies were filled with kites as people welcomed the longer days and celebrated the bounty of the harvest. The festival was a time of joy and gratitude, and kite flying was an expression of the freedom and prosperity that the season promised. However, the past few decades have seen a dramatic shift in the cultural landscape of Jammu, with kite flying becoming a casualty of modernization. The younger generation, drawn to the allure of electronic gadgets and digital entertainment, has increasingly distanced itself from traditional outdoor activities. Smartphones, video games, and social media have replaced the simple pleasures of kite flying, resulting in a significant decline in its popularity. Today, it is rare to see the skies of Jammu dotted with kites, a stark contrast to the past when kite flying was an eagerly awaited event.
In a rapidly changing world, where modernity often comes at the cost of tradition, it is essential to strike a balance between embracing the new and preserving the old. The revival of kite flying in Jammu can serve as a model for the preservation of other cultural traditions that are at risk of being lost. By valuing and preserving these traditions, we can ensure that our cultural heritage continues to enrich our lives and the lives of future generations.
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