Pushpaka Vimana will soar into Lankan skies

Pushpaka Vimana, the mythological flying machine in which the demon king of Sri Lanka, Ravana, flew his captive Sita to his homeland, is set to return to the Lankan airspace, thanks to Team Mangalore, a group of kite flying enthusiasts, which will fly a kite by that name at an international kite festival in the island nation.

The international kite festival will be held on September 17 and 18 at Negombo Beach Park. Team Mangalore has participated in various international kite festivals held at Canada, the UK, Thailand, France, South Korea and Qatar.

“The theme of the Sri Lankan international kite festival is Nilhare Wasanthya (aflutter in blue skies) 2011. Only three countries have been invited to participate in the festival. Team Mangalore is the only team from India that has been extended official invitation,” Team Mangalore leader Sarvesh Rao said.

“This is also the first international kite festival being held in Sri Lanka. We want to dazzle them with our entire range of kites that will include Yakshagana, Bhoota Kola, Kathakalli and Bharatanatyam motifs, Pushpaka Vimana, Charlie, birds and bats,” he explained.

Artist Dinesh Holla, who is a team member, will give a demo on instant portrait making.