KITE MAKING

This quick study began with a visit to Kite King, a small shop in Bandra, Mumbai. Curious about the structure and craft of kites, I spoke with the owner, who generously shared his knowledge of materials and techniques. I was struck by the simplicity of the process — especially the use of handmade flour adhesive, which reminded me of lai, the traditional glue used in Mughal miniature painting to prepare and layer paper.

I left with a few paper kites and a container of their homemade gum, eager to experiment. Having long been interested in natural adhesives, this was the perfect opportunity. As I applied pressed flowers to the kite using the paste, I had to work slowly and attentively — too much moisture risked tearing the paper, too little left a cast or failed to hold. The result was a fragile, light-filled sculpture that brought my botanical practice into flight.

Stencil
Treated Bamboo
Paper (GSM 40-65) 
Butter, Calcutta, Khadima
Homemade Gum (Lai) : flour + water
Thread (Tar/Cord)
6,9,12,16
Panda, White (Cotton)
Badami (Thick/Rice-coated),
Baarik (Glass powder-coated/for kite fighting)