Indians celebrate kite-flying, Lori festivals

Hundreds of colourful kites dotted the sky yesterday as 4,000 people gathered at the Al Ahmadia ground to celebrate the Indian festival marking the change of season. The kite-flying festival is a tradition in the state of Gujarat, K. V. Shankar, Secretary Coordi-nation of the Indian Association, Dubai, told Gulf News, adding that the association had brought 15,000 kites from India.

The cheerful crowd, including excited children and women trying their hand at kite flying.
There was a small cover charge of Dh10 to enjoy the celebration and two kites were given free with the entry charge.

"Some people also brought their own kites," said Shankar, who added that the kite-flying is celebrated every year here and people come and make it an occasion for picnicking and having fun.

Later in the evening, another traditional event, Lori was held at the ground.

It is usually celebrated to mark the coldest day in North India. The fields are cleared of dry leaves and a huge bonfire lit. Ambassador K. C. Singh lit the bonfire.