The Kite or Kite Flying

General Description

          History of kite is about 300 years old. Moreover, it is the oldest form of aircraft. It originated / invented in China about 300 years ago. During the Han dynasty (2000 B.C to 200 A.D), the Chinese military used to attach bamboo pipes to the kite. The passing of wind through the pipes produces a whistling sound which caused enemy troops to panic and flee. So, kites had important role in classical Chinese army.

Structure

          Kite is named after a beautiful bird. The name “Kite” comes from the graceful and soaring bird, the kite. It is the combination of many things. Kites can be made from paper, light wood, leaves, cloth and other lighter materials such as synthetics, plastics, nylon, fiberglass etc. Bamboo, light wood, aluminum and reeds can be used for making the frame of kite. Frame of the kite is the most important and depending factor. Another most important ingredient of it is string or line (locally known as manja). Cotton is most suitable ingredient for making of the string or line, though nylon and polyester can also be used. However, nylon and polyester is comparatively dangerous and also prohibited in Pakistan. Most popularly, kites are flown for recreational, scientific research and military purposes.

Types

          Flying of kites are not important for everyone, however, it is definitely something that we enjoy and can relate to so many ways. The parents buy kites for their children in their vacations. Some of the kites are so big and are in the shape of a sharks and snakes. These kites have really long tails that whips in the wind too. Recently, there is a revival of kite festivals all over. One can see fascinating designs of colorful kites of various shapes and sizes during such festivals. Some of the countries like Pakistan, China, Japan, India and Thailand have such festivals on regular bases. These have led to innovations in the design of kites like the box, bowed, delta and dragon etc. Its lovers have established clubs and organize competitions of kite flying.

Technique behind Kite

          It is interesting to know how kites fly. The combination of force, drag and gravity keeps it in the air. It must be flown in such a waythat its angle against the wind, called the angle of attack, provides maximum lift to overcome both drag and gravity. The angle of attack can be controlled by one or more short lines called the bridles. Flying of kite is so easy and amazing. The wind lift it up into the air quickly. If there is enough string to let, the kite goes as high as it want to go. It got a little harder to control in the air because the wind kept it tugging. It was so peaceful to just watch it sway back and forth in the breeze.

Conclusion

          Kite flying is truly a sport of all in Pakistan. It is quite inexpensive and one does not have to depend upon anything special-play fields or even a team to enjoy it. Like the free flight of one’s imagination, dreams, aspirations and ambition, kite flying gives a release to the instinctive desire to fly high in the sky.