<p>Ahmedabad: As Makar Sankranti approaches, craftsmen in Ahmedabad are busy preparing kite strings, locally known as 'Manjha', a key part of the festival's celebrations across India. Rupesh Thakur, a third-generation 'Manjha' maker, continues a family legacy that spans over six decades. His grandfather migrated from Lucknow to Ahmedabad, where the family began crafting the traditional strings.</p><p>Ruoesh, who uses a mix of natural materials like cotton and rice, has also made efforts to reduce the use of harmful glass powder in his 'Manjha'. </p><p>"I use chemicals to make the 'Manjha', but have reduced the amount of glass powder to ensure safety," he said, emphasizing his commitment to providing safer products.</p><p>Rupesh urges the public to avoid Chinese 'Manjha' which can be harmful to both humans and birds. "Our strings are made with cotton and will not cause harm," he explained.</p><p>Loyal customers like Dheeraj Khatri, who has been visiting Rupesh's shop for over a decade, appreciate the handmade quality of his strings. "These strings are crafted traditionally, making them more environment-friendly than the Chinese variety," said Khatri.</p><p>With Makar Sankranti det for January 14, Ahmedabad's 'Manjha' makers are ready for the festival's kite-flying excitement. (With PTI Inputs)</p>
