Jalandhar: As the Basant Panchami festival approaches, concerns have once again surfaced regarding the use of dangerous Chinese kite strings, commonly known as “killer manjha.” Warning people against its use, Balwant Rai Dhiman, president of the Mandir Mana Ram Sudhar Welfare Society and former president of Shri Vishwakarma Temple, Phagwara, appealed to parents, youth, and traders not to buy or sell this dangerous string. Speaking in Phagwara on Wednesday, Dhiman said that kite flying is a traditional activity enjoyed by both children and young people during Basant Panchami. The thrill of cutting opponents’ kites and celebrating joyfully is deeply ingrained in the spirit of this festival.
However, in their quest for stronger kite strings, many young people, unaware or heedless of the deadly consequences, purchase Chinese manjha from the market. He said that the use of Chinese manjha has led to several tragic incidents, including serious injuries to the necks, hands, and fingers of unsuspecting pedestrians and kite flyers. “This string is not only dangerous for others but equally life-threatening for the person using it,” Dhiman said, adding that cases of people being seriously injured or killed by this sharp, glass-coated string are frequently reported. Dhiman emphasized that in earlier times, only cotton thread was used for kite flying, which was safe and environmentally friendly. However, despite its proven dangers, the advent of Chinese manjha has changed people’s preferences.
Jalandhar: Social activist issues warning against Chinese kite string.
