Charkhi – Spool for Kite Thread

When kite thread is rolled on a spool it’s called Charkhi in Hindi. In various languages, the same thing is called by different names such as Kite spool or thread winder in English. In Gujarati it’s called a Firki, in Bengali, its called Latai.

Basically, it is a device used for winding and controlling the line of a kite or kite Thread. It is an essential tool for kite flying, especially in areas where long, strong, and continuous winds allow for high-altitude kite flying.

Charkhi has the following key features

Easy Handling :

A charkhi typically consists of a circular or cylindrical spool with a handle or grip for easy rotation. Its should not be too heavy so that our hands get tired holding it

Prevent Tangling:

During kite flying the spool is designed to hold the kite line-kite Thread securely and prevent it from getting tangled during flight.

Easy to roll or wind :

The handle or grip allows the kite flyer to control the release or retrieval of the line/kite thread, enabling them to let out or reel in the kite as desired. When kites get cut you need to wind the thread back on spool/charkhi and so we need charkhi on which we can wind the thread faster. Heavy chakrhi due to its own weight gets certain momentum and with a certain practice, we can learn to wind thread faster using the motion of our hands without the use of fingers. 

Charkhi comes in various sizes, depending on the length and thickness of the kite line-kite Thread being used. They are often made from materials like plastic, wood, or metal, and may have additional features such as detachable handles.

Various sizes of Charkhi are Available in markets in India. 

Kite enthusiasts use charkhi to manage the kite’s altitude, direction, and stability. By releasing or pulling in the line-Kite Thread, the flyer can adjust the tension and angle of the kite, enabling it to soar higher or perform specific maneuvers. The charkhi provides better control and prevents the line-kite Thread from becoming tangled or twisted during flight.

In regions where kite flying is popular, such as India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other South Asian countries, charkhis are commonly used and have become an integral part of the kite flying tradition. They enhance the overall experience and allow for more enjoyable and precise control over the kite’s flight.