Mangalore kite fliers a big hit in France

Express News

Mangalore, 28 September 2010: Team Mangalore, the lone entry from India, which flew their special kites not only reflected the rich Indian culture but also tugged many hearts at the 16th International Kite Festival organised at Dieppe, France.

 

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Returning from a successful outing a week ago, the team of kite enthusiasts was brimming with a sense of fulfillment on cementing India’s presence in the international kite-flying circuit.

 

Mangalore-based hobby group of kite fliers — Sarvesh Holla, artist Dinesh Holla, Prashant and Subash Pai — had taken along with them a special kite, ‘Pushpaka Vimana’ (a three dimensional appliqué work made up of rip stop nylon fabric), made just for the occasion.

 

Besides Yakshagana, Kathakalli, Gajaraja, Charlie Chaplin and Bharathnatya kites showcasing the cultural diversity of India and in particular coastal Karnataka, they had taken a new bird kite Milana to dazzle visitors during the display of kites under floodlights.

 

“If the display just sticks to flying kites, local citizens do not show much interest,” said Dinesh Holla.

 

An artist himself, Holla painted line arts on the spot at his stall during the festival and as a gesture had handed it to many free of cost.

 

The French were mesmerised by India’s culture and tradition. Thus many did not believe in accepting the line arts for free. They either ended up paying for it or matched gesture by handing over chocolates or sweets.

 

Nearly 175 representatives from over 42 countries, participated in the prestigious event.