How kite-makers in Mumbai’s Bainganwadi fight stereotypes and a pandemic to stay relevant
The pandemic has affected the cottage industry of kite-making. The declining demand due to the lockdown forced many to abandon this craft and find employment elsewhere.
Though it’s a male-centric occupation, Sufiya Begum, an 18-year-old accountancy student, helps her father Sayyed Urmay Farma in the business. She is the eldest among five daughters. The family migrated from West Bengal 18 years ago, and are now settled in Bainganwadi in East Mumbai.
Her father started the kite-making business right after they arrived. His unique designs made his kites popular among customers in Mumbai and nearby cities. During the season, the whole family gets involved in making kites to fulfill the demand. The shop is named after one of the daughters, Aliya.
“My father designs the kites. We just help him to make them. The kite-flying season lasts four months—from January to August. August 14 is the last day,” Sufiya Begum said.
Sufiya claims she gets teased by fellow school-mates for the work her family does for survival. A few years back, before they established their reputation in this profession, neighbors and relatives would object to involving daughters and women in the business.
“People call me “ae patang wali (hey kite maker), and ask ‘what are you doing here’? At first, I’d get angry and annoyed. Then my father told me if this is your passion, you should go with it. So, I have decided that after my family, I would like to take this up permanently.”
Credit – Opia Films and Public Bolti
