Sangareddy district in Telangana witnessed a devastating accident on a routine day, where a Chinese kite string, or manja, became a silent killer. A local resident died instantly after the imported string lodged around his neck, severing major arteries in a matter of seconds.
The mishap happened in broad daylight during an informal kite-flying competition. Friends and family described the victim as a vibrant individual who loved outdoor activities. As kites soared high, an errant manja line from an adjacent flyer cut across, ensnaring him fatally. Rescue efforts were futile; the string’s chemical enhancement made it nearly impossible to cut without proper tools.
Health experts explain that Chinese manja’s toxicity doesn’t just come from its sharpness—exposure can cause severe lacerations and poisoning. Telangana police have ramped up patrols and confiscated stockpiles from black market dealers. This incident adds to a growing list of fatalities linked to the banned product nationwide.
Grief-stricken locals held a vigil, urging the government to impose nationwide digital tracking for kite materials. District collector vowed comprehensive safety drives ahead of festival seasons. While investigations continue, this loss serves as a stark reminder of prioritizing safety over tradition in kite-flying festivities.