Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday jointly inaugurated the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront, turning a traditional celebration into a moment of cultural diplomacy. The event highlighted the growing warmth between India and Germany while showcasing Gujarat’s vibrant heritage.
Upon their arrival, both leaders were warmly received and honored with traditional Gujarati scarves. The riverfront transformed into a lively cultural arena, with folk artists from different parts of Gujarat performing traditional music and dance. The performances offered an immersive glimpse into the state’s cultural richness, creating a festive atmosphere that resonated with both domestic and international visitors.
The Prime Minister and the German Chancellor actively participated in the celebrations by flying kites together. PM Modi flew a specially crafted kite displaying the message “Bharat – Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” symbolizing India’s belief in global unity and shared humanity. Other kites featured the Indian Tricolour, spiritual imagery, and designs reflecting friendship between India and Germany, reinforcing the spirit of international cooperation.
Large crowds gathered along the Sabarmati Riverfront, eager to witness the rare moment of cultural interaction between the two leaders. Many spectators waved Indian and German flags, visually representing the strengthening bond between the two nations. The leaders also engaged with international kite flyers who had traveled from across the world to participate in the festival.
The International Kite Festival is held annually during Uttarayan, a period marking the sun’s northward movement and the transition toward summer. This year’s festival will continue until January 14 and features 135 international kite enthusiasts from 50 countries, along with 65 participants from across India and more than 870 local flyers from Gujarat.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi welcomed Chancellor Merz to the Sabarmati Ashram, where both leaders paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. They also viewed an exhibition highlighting Gandhi’s life and ideals, and Merz signed the visitors’ book, marking the visit as a moment of historical and symbolic significance.
Chancellor Merz’s visit to India, scheduled from January 12 to 13, coincides with 75 years of diplomatic relations and 25 years of the India–Germany Strategic Partnership. During their meetings in Gandhinagar, the two leaders are set to review ongoing cooperation and explore deeper collaboration in areas such as trade, technology, defence, education, sustainability, and innovation.
According to officials, the visit reinforces the shared vision of both nations to build a forward-looking partnership that contributes positively to global stability and cooperation.
