Bhubaneswar, 13 January (H.S.): To celebrate the vibrant tradition of kite flying associated with Makar Sankranti and to connect the younger generation with Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, ORMAS and Subhadra Shakti will organise a special Kite Show at the Shishir Saras–2026 fairgrounds on Wednesday.

The Kite Show will be held from 4 pm to 5 pm, during which the sky above the fairground will be filled with a colourful display of traditional and modern-designed kites. Special animal- and bird-shaped balloon kites are expected to be a major attraction, particularly for children. In a move to ensure public safety, the organisers have announced that no manjha (sharp thread) will be used, making the event safe and family-friendly.

To further promote the art of kite making, a kite-making workshop will be conducted from 2 pm to 4 pm, where children and youth will learn traditional and creative techniques and fly the kites they make themselves. The most skilled participants will be selected for a kite-flying competition to be held on Thursday, January 15.

Welcoming the initiative, Minister for Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water and Rural Development, Shri Ravi Narayan Naik, said the state government is committed to preserving and promoting Odisha’s cultural traditions. He urged residents of the capital to visit the fair and celebrate Makar Sankranti with joy and enthusiasm. He noted that higher footfall at the fair would boost the sale of rural products and help spread the festive spirit to villages across the state.

Popularly known as a ‘Mini India Fair’, Shishir Saras showcases not only Odia culture but also the diverse traditions of different regions of the country. As part of this cultural exchange, Assam’s Bihu folk dance will be performed at the fairgrounds on Wednesday evening.

Meanwhile, the fair continues to draw large crowds to its food courts, handicraft and handloom stalls. Young visitors are also seen thronging the live counters to create customised Sambalpuri jewellery, lac bangles and Sabai grass products. Notably, the fair has already recorded sales of over ₹3.6 crore in the first three days, with expectations of further growth in the coming days.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda