#GoFlyAKite: A dummy’s guide to hosting the perfect patang party this Makar Sankranti

Kites, food, music and masti — sums up the perfect patang party, doesn’t it? And with Makar Sankranti just ’round the corner, many a Hyderabadi peeps are already gearing up to throw their big, fat annual patang party.

After all what’s Sankranti without a fun day of kite flying with friends and family, binging on some yummy goodies and dancing to some peppy beats? Haven’t gotten around planning yours yet? Worry not, we’ve got your back.Here’s all the ideas you need to throw a fun-filled patang party that your gang will remember for the whole year to come...

SHUDDH DESI DRESS CODE
The best part about a patang party is you can dress up or dress down, as long as comfort is the keyword. For an uber insta worthy party album, you could go for a common colour scheme as the dress code. Think whites paired with blue denims. Else, pick a broader theme — such as shuddh desi — and let your guests decide what they want to wear. Dress comfortably in a way that will not hinder your fun activities and dance/ kite flying movements.

FINGER FOOD, BOTTOMLESS DRINKS
weet pongal, boorelu, paramannam, ariselu — Sankranti snacks are aplenty in every Telugu household. If yours still makes these from scratch, your guests are a lucky lot. If not, get some from the market. The roof top buffet spread should have lots of fuss-free finger foods and mason jars filled with refreshing drinks to keep guests fuelled up.

ON THE PLAYLIST
There is no party without music and you’ve definitely gotta amp up the boom box to churn out some Bollywood numbers to get the party going. Some of our favourites would be, Udi Udi Jaaye (Raees), Manja (Kai-Po Che) Dheel De De (Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam), which are perfect patang numbers.
Peppy Telugu beats, remixes of retro hits and even the odd club hits are must-haves on the playlist.
QUIRKY DÉCOR
As most patang parties are held on the terrace, the décor could be minimal yet traditional — think marigolds and mango leaf thorans with funky elements like a bedecked rickshaw, or a giant kite... A pretty shamiyana would be perfect for those who want to chill in the shade while the others are screaming ‘affffaaaa’. a picture booth, where guests can take goofy pictures with props, could be a fun addition!
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND AT YOUR KITE PARTY

Say no to Chinese manja: The Chinese manjas are razor sharp and a great eco hazard. The thread is made of nylon, plastic or other synthetic materials, laced with glass, metal and other sharp objects which could be extremely dangerous both for you and your guests. What’s more, they kill and maime hapless birds, which get entangled on the loose threads hanging on trees and poles. This kite season, don’t leave any stray manja hanging around!

Avoid plastic Patangs: sustainable celebrations are the need of the hour. It’s best to opt for paper kites for your parties — they are classic and colourful. plastic patangs are a big ‘no’.
Be careful: While flying kites or dancing, be careful and mindful that you are on the rooftop. If alcohol is served, or if children are around, make sure someone’s keeping an eye on all the guests. Guard against injuries from sharp threads too. stay sun safe by donning hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. And, always keep a
first-aid box handy.