Kite-making in Gujarat, India, plays a significant role in the local economy, especially during the Uttarayan festival in mid-January. This Hindu festival marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. During Uttarayan, people across Gujarat, particularly in the west, take part in kite flying, using glass-coated or plastic strings. Over 130,000 workers handcraft kites, supporting an industry worth 6.50 billion Indian rupees (around $76.58 million). This provides jobs and boosts the local economy during the festival. Although kite flying lasts only two to three days, kite production continues throughout the year. However, the kite industry faces serious challenges. The plastic-coated strings, while cheap and easily available, cause many injuries and fatalities. Birds often get injured or killed by the sharp strings, and humans are also at risk, with at least 18 casualties reported in recent Uttarayan festivals due to electrocution or injuries from the strings. Environmental concerns are growing as well, as the materials used in kite-making harm wildlife and raise sustainability issues. Despite these challenges, kite-making remains a vital part of Gujarat’s culture and economy.