Deadly thread in the sky: Why Chinese manjha remains a killer
Times of India
by RK LAXMIFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Chinese manjha, a sharp synthetic kite string imported from China, has become a growing safety hazard in India during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Independence Day. Unlike traditional cotton-based manjha, which is biodegradable and less harmful, the synthetic version is made from nylon or plastic coated with glass or metal powder, making it far sharper and more durable. This poses a significant risk to motorcyclists, pedestrians, and wildlife, as the thin, nearly invisible strings can entangle or cut them severely, sometimes leading to fatal injuries.
The problem has reached concerning levels in recent years, with numerous incidents reported across India. In Gujarat alone, at least 15 people were killed and hundreds injured during Makar Sankranti in January 2026 due to sharp kite strings or falls from rooftops. Over 600 birds, including owls and kites, have also been injured or entangled in these synthetic strings, raising environmental concerns. Despite restrictions imposed by the National Green Tribunal, illegal sales of banned nylon manjha continue during peak festival seasons.
The dangers extend beyond physical harm; stray kite strings often fall onto roads, creating safety risks for drivers and pedestrians. In Lucknow, scooter riders have suffered deep cuts after colliding with these nearly invisible threads. Authorities have responded by deploying security guards at flyovers and organizing awareness campaigns, but the issue persists due to the continued sale of banned manjha.
This growing threat highlights a critical need for stricter enforcement of regulations and greater public awareness about the risks associated with synthetic kite strings. The incident underscores the broader challenge of balancing cultural traditions with modern safety concerns, particularly during festivals that draw millions of participants worldwide. As India grapples with this issue, it raises global safety concerns, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and safer alternatives to traditional practices.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026