Revisiting childhood: Swapno Bhor members take part in kite-flying show

Kolkata: In a bid to rediscover their youth, the senior citizens who are members of Swapno Bhor, took part in kite-flying on Wednesday afternoon.

The venue was the ground of Swapno Bhor. The kites, along with 'latai' and threads were supplied to them by the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO).

Inaugurating the kite-flying show, HIDCO chairman Debashis Sen said: "Flying kites is one of the most exciting rituals of Vishwakarma Puja. We thought why not let the senior residents of Snehodiya relive their childhood days on this occasion? In fact, we have arranged designer kites for them so that they can enjoy to the fullest."

Around 70 senior citizens took part in the grand show. There was excitement all around as they flew their kites. Many of them were found flying their kites after decades.

It may be mentioned that Swapno Bhor organises various programmes throughout the year, including indoor games, for the senior citizens.

Kite-flying is an integral part of Vishwakarma Puja. It was Nawab Wajid Ali Shah who had introduced kites to Bengal after he came from Lucknow and got settled in Metiabruz.

Over the years, the number of people involved in the sport has dropped sharply, as many of the old buildings have been pulled down and replaced by high-rises, where the residents do not have any access to the roof.