Kite fighting is more than just a pastime in Afghanistan—it is a cultural legacy that has survived wars, political bans, and changing times. Among the many elements that make this game thrilling, nothing stands out more than the “tar”—the specially prepared string coated with a sharp mixture of glue and ground glass. This tar transforms a simple kite flying competition into an intense duel in the skies, where skill, precision, and craftsmanship decide the winner.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating recipe for Afghan kite fighting string (tar), its cultural importance, the preparation methods, and the artistry behind it.
The Legacy of Afghan Kite Fighting
Kite flying in Afghanistan, known locally as “gudiparan bazi”, has been a cherished tradition for centuries. Every spring, especially during Nowruz (Persian New Year), the skies over Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-i-Sharif are filled with brightly colored kites dancing against the wind.
But kite flying is not just for beauty—it is for battle. Two kite flyers face off in the air, attempting to cut each other’s strings. The secret weapon? The tar. A perfectly prepared tar-coated string can slice through an opponent’s kite line with ease, sending their kite drifting helplessly away while crowds cheer.
What is Tar?
In the simplest sense, tar is a battle string. Unlike ordinary cotton or nylon thread, tar is coated with a special paste made of:
- Rice glue (or flour-based adhesive) for stickiness
- Finely powdered glass for sharpness
- Additional strengthening agents (sometimes ash, gum, or even natural resins)
The result is a string that is both flexible and razor-sharp, capable of cutting through other kite lines with precision. Preparing tar is considered an art passed down from masters to apprentices.
Ingredients for Afghan Kite Fighting String (Tar)
To make tar, you need both adhesive materials and cutting materials. Traditional recipes vary from region to region, but a classic Afghan recipe looks like this:
Adhesive Base
- Rice flour (½ kg) – creates a strong glue
- Water (2 liters) – for boiling the paste
- Sugar (100 g) – strengthens the stickiness
- Gum Arabic or tree resin (optional) – makes the coating flexible and durable
Cutting Agents
- Glass (1–2 kg, broken bottles or mirrors) – ground into a fine powder
- Charcoal ash (200 g) – smooths the texture and prevents clumping
- Ceramic powder or sand (optional) – adds extra cutting sharpness
String Base
- Cotton thread or nylon reel (1,000–2,000 yards) – the foundation of the tar
Step-by-Step Recipe for Tar
Making tar is not just mixing glue and glass—it requires patience, careful handling, and precision. Here’s how Afghan kite masters prepare it:
Step 1: Preparing the Glass Powder
- Collect old bottles, mirrors, or glass pieces.
- Wrap them in thick cloth and crush them into tiny pieces using a hammer.
- Grind the pieces further in a stone grinder or metal mortar until they become a fine, almost flour-like powder.
- Sift the powder through a cloth to ensure no large shards remain. This step is crucial—large pieces make the string brittle and dangerous to handle.
Step 2: Making the Glue Base
- In a large pot, add water and rice flour.
- Stir continuously while heating to prevent lumps.
- Add sugar and a little gum Arabic to increase elasticity.
- Boil until it becomes a thick, sticky paste with a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Mixing the Cutting Agent
- Slowly add the glass powder into the warm paste.
- Stir continuously so the glass disperses evenly.
- Add charcoal ash to reduce stickiness and improve smoothness.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly but not harden.
Step 4: Coating the String
- Stretch the kite string between two poles or trees in an open area.
- Using a cloth or glove, apply the paste evenly along the entire length of the string.
- Coat it several times for durability, allowing it to dry partially between coats.
- For best results, let the tar dry in shade rather than direct sun—it prevents brittleness.
Step 5: Curing and Finishing
- Once the final coat is applied, leave the string to cure for 24–48 hours.
- When completely dry, roll the string carefully onto a spool.
- The tar string is now sharp, strong, and ready for kite battles.
Safety Precautions
Making tar is exciting but also dangerous. Since glass powder is extremely fine, it can damage lungs, eyes, and skin if handled carelessly. Traditional kite makers always follow these precautions:
- Wear cloth masks or cover mouths while grinding glass.
- Use thick gloves when applying the paste to avoid cuts.
- Keep the mixture away from children and pets.
- Store finished tar reels wrapped in cloth to avoid accidental injury.
The Role of Tar in Kite Fighting
Once prepared, tar becomes the soul of kite fighting. In Afghan kite battles, the duel takes two forms:
- Doh-tar (Pulling Fight) – Where two kites lock strings, and each flyer pulls sharply until one string is cut.
- Lagho-tar (Loose Fight) – Where one kite chases the other, cutting its string from behind.
In both cases, the sharpness and durability of tar decide the outcome. A strong tar can withstand pressure and slice through opponents’ strings, making it the prized possession of every skilled flyer.
Cultural Importance of Tar
During the Taliban’s rule in the late 1990s, kite flying was banned. But the tradition never died. Families secretly made tar and stored kites, waiting for the skies to be free again. After 2001, when the ban was lifted, Afghans celebrated by flying kites in massive festivals, proving that the spirit of tar and kite battles is unbreakable.
Even today, tar is not just a recipe—it’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and national pride.
Modern Variations
While the traditional recipe still dominates, modern enthusiasts experiment with:
- Synthetic adhesives like Fevicol or epoxy resin for stronger bonding
- Industrial glass powders instead of hand-ground glass
- Nylon strings that are lighter and stronger than cotton
However, purists argue that nothing compares to the authenticity of hand-made tar using rice glue and natural materials.
Conclusion
The Afghan kite fighting string—tar—is more than just a tool. It is a blend of science, tradition, and art. Preparing tar requires patience, respect for heritage, and a deep love for the sky battles that define Afghan culture.
From grinding glass under the sun to coating reels of thread with sticky paste, every step reflects the dedication of kite makers who turn a simple game into a fierce and beautiful competition.
So the next time you see kites soaring and cutting each other in mid-air, remember: behind every victorious kite lies the secret of a perfectly crafted tar.