Manjha mayhem: Annual kite-flying tradition leaves over 100 birds dead, injured

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 21

The annual Independence Day celebrations, traditionally accompanied by kite flying, once again proved tragic for the avian population in Delhi-NCR. This year, over 100 birds were reported injured or killed, caught in the embrace of glass-coated kite strings, known as ‘manjha’. These sharp strings, while slicing through the skies, also slice through the wings and bodies of these innocent creatures.

Among the injured are crows, pigeons and black kites — the most affected species, according to official figures. Despite a 2017 ban on glass-coated manjha, the fatalities continue to rise, with this year’s toll serving as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by this seemingly harmless pastime.

Enthusiasts must respect the law

Manjha is a deadly weapon that doesn’t just threaten birds — it also puts humans at risk. It’s banned in India for a very good reason. Enthusiasts must respect the law and be responsible, so birds are not injured or killed. — Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS

“Kite flying is deeply rooted in our culture, especially during Independence Day,” said Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS. “But manjha is a deadly weapon that doesn’t just threaten birds — it also puts humans at risk. It’s banned in India for a very good reason. Enthusiasts must respect the law and be responsible, so birds are not injured or killed.”

Wildlife SOS, an organisation dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife in distress, has been inundated with cases of birds severely injured by manjha. The non-biodegradable string is notorious for causing deep lacerations, severed wings and other grave injuries that often leave birds permanently incapacitated. While the organisation’s team has been working tirelessly to save as many birds as possible, the impact is far-reaching.

“Each year, our team rescues thousands of birds that have had their wings cut off due to manjha,” said Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS. “Most of these birds succumb to their injuries. It is crucial that we raise awareness about the dangers of manjha and encourage responsible kite flying practices,” she added.

The persistent use of manjha also poses a significant environmental threat, as it is non-biodegradable and lingers in the ecosystem long after the festivities are over.

As the kites soar high, it’s worth remembering the price paid by those who share the skies. The joy of a tradition should not come at the cost of life. For those who witness an injured bird, Satyanarayan urges, “Please call the Wildlife SOS helpline at 9871963535 and report manjha users to the police.”

Threat to environment too

Persistent use of manjha also poses a significant environmental threat, as it is non-biodegradable and lingers in the ecosystem long after the festivities are over.