Chinese Manjha That Slashes Necks: A Synthetic Thread Coated with Sharp Abrasives
Chinese manjha, a banned synthetic kite thread, has become a deadly hazard, causing fatal injuries to people, birds, and the environment across India.
Chinese manjha (PC- Social Media)
Manjha was once merely a means of flying kites, but today, in the form of so-called Chinese manjha, it has turned into an enemy of human life. It has become a silent killer—almost invisible in the air—striking like a blade at the necks of people moving on roads. What began as a pastime in the name of kite flying has now evolved into a grave threat to humans, birds, and the environment as a whole. Incidents from different parts of the country have repeatedly surfaced in which pedestrians and commuters have fallen victim to this deadly thread.
States such as Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, and Maharashtra witness such accidents every year. There is public outrage for a while, police launch drives, but as soon as the issue cools down, this illegal trade resurfaces and continues unabated.
What Is Chinese Manjha?
Traditionally, kite flying uses cotton or ordinary thread with a light coating of powdered glass. Chinese manjha, however, is entirely different—and far more dangerous. It is made of nylon or other synthetic fibers, coated with a thick, sharp layer of glass shards mixed with metal powders. Substances like aluminum oxide, iron powder, and in many cases lead are added to this coating, making the thread extremely strong and razor-sharp. When pulled, instead of snapping, it stretches—making its strike even more lethal. This is why it can cut through skin, flesh, and, in some cases, even bone.
Why Is It Called “Chinese”?
The practice originated with large-scale production of synthetic and nylon threads in China. At one time, inexpensive and strong nylon threads were imported from China to India for kite flying. Gradually, glass and metal coatings were added to make these threads sharper. Although Chinese manjha is now manufactured illegally within India itself, the name “Chinese” stuck because its technology and raw materials were initially associated with China. Experts point out that the term is now misleading, as a major part of its production and supply chain operates domestically.
How Is It Still Being Sold Despite the Ban?
Chinese manjha has been banned nationwide for nearly five years. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has declared it hazardous to the environment and public safety and imposed a complete ban. Under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, its manufacture, sale, and use can attract up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh. Despite this, the “thread of death” is openly sold in markets, lanes, and even through online platforms. Insiders say it is produced in small workshops and homes, as raw materials like nylon thread and industrial powders are easily available.
At the local level, police action often results in the arrest of small shopkeepers or kite sellers, while the major players and supply networks behind this illegal trade remain untouched. As a result, after a brief period of enforcement, the business restarts.
How Dangerous Is This Manjha?
According to a report by the National Disaster Management Authority, nearly 70% of those injured by manjha are two-wheeler riders. At high speeds, contact with the thread on the neck or face can cause severe injuries or death. In several cases, even helmets have failed to protect riders, as the thread cuts the lower part of the neck.
Every year, more than 5,000 birds die because of this manjha. While flying, it gets entangled in their wings, causing them to crash or die in agony. When it tangles with high-tension power lines, it also increases the risk of electric shocks and fires.
Most alarming is the fact that Chinese manjha does not decompose in soil or water for up to 50 years. It adds to plastic pollution and damages the environment for decades.
Considering these dangers, police forces—including the Delhi Police—have issued advisories. Special drives are conducted ahead of Independence Day and festivals, involving drone surveillance, checkpoints, and inspections of shops. However, experts believe these measures are still insufficient.
A permanent solution is possible only if the entire supply chain of Chinese manjha is dismantled. Equally important is public awareness, because the danger is not limited to people on the roads. Children and young people flying kites on rooftops are also at risk. In many cases, the thread wraps around hands, severing fingers, damaging nerves, and causing permanent disabilities.
Doctors say injuries from Chinese manjha are far more serious than ordinary cuts because fine metal and glass particles enter the wound, increasing the risk of infection and often necessitating surgery.
Surgeons warn that cuts to the neck are the most fatal, as they can damage the windpipe and major arteries. In some cases, excessive bleeding within minutes can turn critical. In such a situation, the responsibility lies not only with law enforcement and administration but also with society at large. Until people stop buying Chinese manjha, this illegal trade will continue to thrive.