Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the International Kite Festival (IKF) 2026 at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad by flying kites alongside German Federal Chancellor Mr. Friedrich Merz, marking a grand and symbolic beginning to the world-famous festival. The event stood as a vibrant celebration of culture and a strong symbol of the enduring friendship and diplomatic ties between India and Germany.
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Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi were also present on the occasion, lending their encouragement and support to the international cultural gathering.
As the skies of Ahmedabad transformed into a spectacular canvas of colors, the Sabarmati Riverfront witnessed the participation of more than 1,000 kite flyers from India and across nearly 50 countries, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy, unity, and global camaraderie. The festival showcased the spirit of Uttarayan, which is not merely a kite-flying event but an integral part of Gujarat’s cultural identity.
Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz visited specially curated installations depicting the traditional architecture of Ahmedabad’s historic pols and havelis. A heritage walkway featuring a kite museum and iconic photo wall offered insights into the evolution of kite-making across India. The dignitaries also observed live demonstrations by skilled artisans, showcasing the intricate art of kite-making using various materials and designs from different Indian states.
The leaders were accorded a grand cultural welcome through captivating performances of Gujarat’s Dandiya Raas, Mallakhamb, Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi. A unique musical ensemble of 108 artists from Gujarat and Rajasthan performed patriotic and devotional compositions such as Vande Mataram and Vaishnav Jan To, along with German musical tunes, using instruments including sitar, sarangi, violin, mandolin, flute, tabla, mridangam, and harmonium—beautifully reflecting Indo-German friendship.
Organised by Gujarat Tourism, the International Kite Festival 2026 features participation from 135 international kite flyers representing 50 countries, 65 kite flyers from 13 Indian states, and 871 kite flyers from 16 districts of Gujarat, displaying innovative kites of diverse shapes, colors, and themes.
The event was attended by members of the state cabinet, local legislators, municipal officials, senior government secretaries, and administrative officers.
To introduce visitors to Gujarat’s rich traditions, 25 handicraft stalls and 15 food stalls have been set up, offering authentic Gujarati cuisine and handcrafted products. Such initiatives continue to position Gujarat as a leading global cultural and tourism destination.
Kite flyers from countries including Germany, France, USA, UK, Japan, China, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Spain, Italy, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, Israel, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and many others are participating, making IKF 2026 a truly global celebration.
The International Kite Festival 2026 has emerged as a magnificent confluence of culture, diplomacy, music, and tradition—strengthening India’s soft power and reinforcing the bonds of friendship between nations.
