International Kite Festival Soars Over Mangaluru's Tannirbavi Beach
Colorful kites filled the sky at Tannirbavi Beach in Mangaluru. Flyers from various countries and India gathered to express their love for the coastal city. The event marked Day 1 of the two-day ONGC-MRPL International Kite Festival-Season 9. This festival is part of Karavali Utsava-2026.
Global Participants Share Their Enthusiasm
Claire Louise Hardwick arrived from the UK with her husband, Dave Hardwick. She said, "I love Mangaluru and the hospitality of its people. We brought different kites to fly and enthral people." Hardwick recalled last year's experience. Wind and showers played spoilsport on the second day. However, she noted the Mangaluru coast is suitable for kite flying.
A team from Indonesia participated enthusiastically. Liannawati Lie, Elli Herlina, and Muhammad Nasir joined the festival. Lie brought a special kite called ‘Rama and Sita’. This was her third visit to Mangaluru for the kite festival. She said, "I flew a special kite, ‘Hanuman’, during my first visit in 2019. In 2024, it was ‘Tinkerbell’, a furry character. For three decades, kite flying has been my pastime." Lie has participated in many such festivals.
Diverse Experiences and Cultural Displays
Sandrine from France has a passion for kite flying for the past two decades. She was happy to be part of the Mangaluru event for the third time. Sokk Andres from Estonia shared his thoughts. He said the sea, bright sky, and wind make the kite festival in Mangaluru a unique experience.
Baew Spaulding from Thailand brought hyper and quad-line sport kites. He expressed his happiness at being part of the festival. Spaulding added, "I love Mangaluru food."
Team Mangalore organized the festival. They displayed their iconic creations. These included Kathakali, Yaksha Garuda, Pushpaka Vimana, and Vibhishana. Their latest creation, Ratha, reflected the rich cultural heritage.
Official Recognition and Festival Impact
Thousands thronged Blue Bay Beach in Tannirbavi to witness the event. Legislative assembly speaker UT Khader congratulated the Dakshina Kannada district administration. He also praised various government departments. Khader said they made Karavali Utsava a festival of harmony.
The event saw participation from 62 kite flyers of international fame. Thirty-two came from India. Thirty flyers represented 15 other countries. This diverse participation highlighted the festival's global appeal.
The ONGC-MRPL International Kite Festival continues to draw crowds. It showcases Mangaluru's vibrant culture and scenic beauty. Flyers and spectators alike enjoy the coastal setting. The festival promotes harmony and international camaraderie through the simple joy of kite flying.
