Ban in place, Chinese manja still claims lives, injures many in NK

Hubballi: Despite a ban, Chinese manja — a sharp kite-flying thread — continues to pose a serious threat in North Karnataka, injuring 3-4 persons in the region this calendar year. Though the state government banned its use in 2016 and the National Green Tribunal followed suit in 2017, the thread is still used rampantly, also killing and injuring many birds.

Authorities and environmentalists have long advocated the use of cotton thread, but many boys and kite flyers prefer Chinese manja for the thrill of cutting rival kites mid-air.It may be recalled that Sanjukumar Hosamani, 48, died on the spot after a Chinese manja slit his throat at Talamadagi bridge in Bidar district on Jan 14, 2026.Krishna Hadapad, a social activist in Gadag, told TOI that kite flying is an indigenous and competitive sport dependent on aerodynamic lift.

“It fascinates participants, competitors and even passersby, enhancing creativity, tolerance and concentration. While the sport must be preserved for future generations, Chinese manja has tarnished its image, leaving people fearful,” he said.Shakuntala Mulagund, president of Darideepa Mahila Vividhoddeshagala Samsthe, Gadag, said their organisation recently conducted an awareness programme in a government school.

“Many parents now discourage children from kite flying due to manja-related risks. We are spreading awareness by encouraging students to use only cotton thread,” she said.She added that kite flying peaks during Sankranti in Jan and Kaara Hunnime in May/June, making it crucial to intensify awareness campaigns on safe practices.Harshavardhan Sheelavant, a bird watcher in Dharwad, said Chinese manja is often locally made and behaves more like a wire than a thread.

“Birds such as shijra, pigeons and kites often get entangled and die. We have rescued several injured birds, including grey hornbills and fruit bats. Wings get slashed, and crows’ legs are frequently trapped, leading to permanent disability,” he said.He also warned of electrocution risks when manja comes in contact with high-tension wires. Dogs too have been victims, with children tying manja to their tails or limbs.

Minor injuries to bikers and pedestrians often go unreported. As manja is non-biodegradable, it also harms the environment. “Community stakeholders — parents, adult flyers and thread sellers — must take responsibility,” he added.Box: How harmful is Chinese Manja?Chinese manja is a nylon thread coated with glass powder and adhesive, making it razor-sharp. Sometimes, it is mixed with metal or iron powder. Its use is banned in India; Karnataka imposed the ban in 2016 and reiterated it in 2024. However, the thread continues to be sold openly and online.