Ranchi, Jan 9 (IANS) Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s popularity is touching the skies — literally. Kites with images of his face rule the market.”I am unable to meet the demands of the Dhoni kite,” said Mohammad Talib, who has been making and selling kites in this Jharkhand capital for years.

“Every day I prepare around 1,500 kites with photos of Dhoni. But I get over 2,000 young customers daily asking for these kites.”

Shakar Singh, another kite maker, said: “All children come for Dhoni kites. Children and youths are crazy to buy Dhoni kites and they are ready to pay any amount for it.”

Various clubs in Ranchi are organising kite flying competitions to mark Makarsankranti on Jan 14.

“Dhoni is the pride of Jharkhand and we love to see Dhoni kites flying in the sky,” said Rizu Sen, a Class 7 student.

Each Dhoni kite sells for Rs.10 and above.

With or without the approval of the cricket captain, Dhoni brand firecrackers, sweets and chewing tobacco have already captured the markets here. The kite is the latest addition.