Chennai kite festival features 200 inflatable kites, 30 pro flyers

Every year, the state of Tamil Nadu in India holds a big kite festival, and this year is the fifth time.

More than 200 giant inflatable kites shaped like octopuses, sharks, and dancing dolls flew in the sky.

Over 30 professional kite flyers came from countries like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and India.

The festival is happening at Thiruvidanthai Beach, near Chennai, right by the Bay of Bengal.

It lasts for three days, from Friday to Sunday, during India's Independence Day holiday weekend.

Officials think more than 50,000 people will visit by the time it ends.

Last year, over 20,000 visitors came, and when it first started, only 5,000 people showed up.

Entry to the festival is free this year so more families can enjoy it.

In the evening, glowing kites light up the sky with music, DJ concerts, and fireworks.

There are also food stalls, carnival games, handicraft shops, and even a Red Bull race car on display!