Araatrika’s Sustainable Paper Kite Kits for a Green Makar Sankranti
As the vibrant festival of Makar Sankranti approaches, a Pune-based start-up, Araatrika, is adding a magical green twist to the traditional gift exchange. The festival, known for its kite flying, social gatherings, and the exchange of haldi-kumkum (turmeric and vermilion) among married women, now has an eco-friendly option in the form of a ‘paper kite gift kit.’ Infused with seeds of Tulsi (basil) and marigold, this innovative product is designed to provide not only a festive experience but also to leave behind a positive environmental footprint.
The concept behind the ‘paper kite kit’ is simple yet impactful. The gift kit, designed in the shape of a traditional kite, is made from sustainable materials and infused with seeds that, once the kit is discarded, will grow into saplings. This unique initiative by Araatrika seeks to replace the growing trend of plastic and synthetic gift boxes that have become a hallmark of Makar Sankranti celebrations. The biodegradable haldi-kumkum shells included in the kit are made of vegetable protein and dissolve in water, preventing the use of plastic containers that often contribute to littering. According to Jagruti Jain, the founder of Araatrika, this innovative approach aims to encourage sustainability while retaining the essence of social bonding during the festival.
Makar Sankranti, a festival deeply rooted in Indian tradition, celebrates the harvest season and marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn. Along with kite flying, the exchange of sesame seeds, jaggery, sweets, and haldi-kumkum plays an important role in strengthening social ties. Araatrika’s eco-friendly version of this ritual not only retains the cultural significance but also integrates sustainability, providing an environmentally conscious alternative. Jain, an architect-turned-eco-entrepreneur, emphasised that the plantable paper kites are a step towards reducing carbon footprints while spreading awareness about eco-friendly practices. “Rampant plastic use during Sankranti has worsened environmental pollution. Our kits are designed to be fully biodegradable and to help foster a green, sustainable future,” Jain explains.
The start-up’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond this seasonal offering. Araatrika, founded in 2017, produces a wide range of eco-friendly products such as seed pencils, upcycled diaries, zero-waste birthday gifts, and calendars with plantable papers. All of these products are manufactured in-house by women from Pune’s under-sourced communities, supporting local livelihoods and promoting the ethos of ‘vocal for local.’ By making sustainable living accessible and appealing, Araatrika is not only tackling the growing issue of plastic waste but also encouraging a more thoughtful, environmentally responsible approach to gift-giving.
The introduction of such eco-friendly alternatives is especially timely as India grapples with rising plastic waste and environmental concerns. The ‘plantable kite gift kit’ resonates with a larger global movement towards sustainability. At a time when the world is actively seeking solutions to the climate crisis, Araatrika’s efforts in integrating environmental consciousness into cultural celebrations serve as a reminder of how small, mindful changes can have a big impact. Moreover, by encouraging the planting of Tulsi and marigold saplings, the start-up is fostering a culture of greenery, which plays a crucial role in mitigating urban air pollution.
Araatrika’s eco-friendly ‘paper kite kits’ for Makar Sankranti are an exemplary model of how traditional celebrations can seamlessly integrate with modern sustainability initiatives. With growing awareness around environmental issues, products like these are poised to lead the way for a greener, cleaner future. The business model not only delivers eco-friendly alternatives but also supports local communities and promotes a sustainable lifestyle, making it a win-win solution for both consumers and the planet.
