Photos: Kolkata’s traditional fanush lanterns take to the skies

A group called Fanush Lovers Association of India flew more than 50 sky lantern this past weekend from two Kolkata rooftops. Around 40 people gathered to experience this celebration of a shared passion for lantern making. Neighbours and onlookers alike were perched on adjoining rooftops to see lanterns based on different themes, shapes and size take to daytime skies. No Smoking, 90 years of Mickey Mouse and 100 years of Bengali Cinema were just a few of the ideas that took flight.

Updated on: Nov 27, 2018 9:40 AM IST

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Photography enthusiasts line up for a shot as an ornate Fanush (sky lantern) is released during a gathering of the Fanush Lovers Association of India at Belgachia in Kolkata, India on Sunday. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)

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Also spelt as Phanush or Phanus, these sky lanterns have a nearly century-old association with Kolkata and have been regular fixtures in festive celebrations. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)

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In principle, the fanush is a hot air balloon. Place inside these ornate pieces is always a ball of cotton rag called the luti. Fixed to the base, it heats up the air once lit, taking the fanush soaring. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)

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The fanush in its most conventional shape also resembles the hot air balloon, but the ingenuity and skill of master fanush makers –of which hardly any remain –has brought about lanterns that showcase complex design, shapes and themes. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)

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On Sunday’s gathering, many of the lanterns that took off were themed. There was this one, celebrating 90 years of Mickey Mouse, while others celebrated a century of Bengali cinema or raised social awareness with an anti-smoking message. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)

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Certainly a sight for onlookers on rooftops nearby and those passionately involved in the Fanush Lovers Association of India, the gathering even managed to draw some foreign attendees. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)

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While Chinese imports have taken over this craft also, the fragile and delicate fanush still has fans keeping it alive as a non-polluting and clean means of celebration. Some households in North Calcutta still maintain a decades old tradition of releasing them on the afternoon of Kali Puja day. (Arijit Sen / HT Photo)