What is Chinese manjha and why is it dangerous?

Chinese manjha is a sharp, synthetic nylon string coated with glass or metallic powder, far more dangerous than traditional cotton manjha. It can cause fatal throat injuries, especially to motorcyclists.

What is the government's stance on Chinese manjha?

The Uttar Pradesh government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, intensifying raids and prosecuting offenders, as the manufacture, sale, and storage of synthetic manjha are banned.

How does Chinese manjha affect wildlife?

Chinese manjha causes significant harm to wildlife, with over 600 birds injured in Maharashtra alone. Birds become entangled, suffering broken wings or death, and the non-biodegradable string poses long-term environmental risks.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Deadly Kite String: India's Fatal Tradition

Deadly Kite String: India's Fatal Tradition

19 Feb

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Summary

Synthetic Chinese manjha causes fatal injuries and deaths.
Over 600 birds were injured in Maharashtra during kite festival.
Governments adopt zero-tolerance policies against illegal manjha.

Deadly Kite String: India's Fatal Tradition

Kite flying, a joyous tradition during Indian festivals, is now overshadowed by the dangerous spread of Chinese manjha. This synthetic nylon string, coated with glass or metallic powder, is significantly sharper and more durable than traditional cotton manjha. It poses a severe risk, especially to motorcyclists, as its thin, often invisible nature can cause fatal throat injuries when wrapped around the neck.

Recent incidents highlight the gravity of this issue. In Gujarat, at least 15 people died and hundreds were injured during Makar Sankranti on January 13, 2026, with kite strings and falls being primary causes. Maharashtra reported over 600 injured birds since January 14, 2026, blaming the banned Chinese manjha. Similar tragedies have occurred in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana, claiming lives and causing widespread injuries.