PM Modi, German Chancellor Merz fly kites in Ahmedabad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday joined German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the International Kite Festival (IKF) 2026 at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad, where the two leaders were seen flying large tricolour kites, symbolising friendship and growing ties between India and Germany.Chancellor Merz is on his first official visit to India as New Delhi and Berlin seek to deepen cooperation across strategic, economic and security sectors. The visit follows Modi’s earlier meeting with Merz on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, where both leaders agreed to expand the bilateral strategic partnership, with the Prime Minister extending a formal invitation for the visit.

#WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz fly a kite at the International Kite Festival 2026 at Sabarmati Riverfront.

(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/P7emVdTHv1

— ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2026

The International Kite Festival 2026 was inaugurated by Modi in the presence of Merz, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. The skies of Ahmedabad came alive with vibrant colours as more than 1,000 kite flyers from India and nearly 50 countries gathered at the Sabarmati Riverfront for the annual cultural spectacle.
During the event, Modi and Merz visited a specially designed replica showcasing the architectural heritage of Ahmedabad’s traditional pols and havelis. The leaders were also briefed on Gujarat’s deep-rooted kite-flying traditions, which form an integral part of the Uttarayan festival. As part of the heritage walkway, a kite museum and an iconic photo wall have been created, offering visitors insights into kites from different Indian states, crafted using diverse materials and techniques. Live demonstrations by skilled artisans showcased the intricate art of kite-making.The dignitaries were welcomed with cultural performances reflecting India’s rich diversity, including Gujarat’s Beda Raas, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam and the traditional sport of Mallakhamb. Adding to the cultural exchange, 108 artists from Gujarat and Rajasthan presented a musical ensemble featuring instruments such as sitar, sarangi, violin, mandolin, harmonium, flute, dholak, tabla and mridang. The performance included renditions of Vande Mataram, Vaishnav Jan and German melodies, underscoring the cultural bond between the two nations.
Organised by Gujarat Tourism, the International Kite Festival 2026 has drawn participation from 135 international kite flyers representing 50 countries, along with 65 kite flyers from 13 Indian states. In addition, 871 kite flyers from 16 districts of Gujarat are showcasing their skills. Participants hail from countries including Germany, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Brazil, Italy, Spain, South Africa, Canada, China and several others.
The festival will continue with a series of cultural programmes. On the evening of January 13, a grand symphony performance featuring 108 artists, along with a special cultural programme, is scheduled to offer an immersive experience for visitors. Folk singer Kinjal Dave will also perform during the evening event.To introduce visitors to Gujarat’s culinary and craft traditions, 25 handicraft stalls and 15 food stalls have been set up at the venue. Officials said such international festivals highlighting the state’s cultural heritage are helping Gujarat establish itself as a prominent global cultural and tourism destination.Members of the state cabinet, local legislators, municipal officials and senior state government officials were present at the event.

(State Correspondent)