Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz engaged in a vibrant display of cultural camaraderie on Monday as they flew kites together in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, just days ahead of the widely celebrated festival of Makar Sankranti. The event took place at the International Kite Festival 2026 at the Sabarmati Riverfront, one of the city’s most iconic venues for the annual kite-flying extravaganza.

The kite festival was formally inaugurated by PM Modi and Chancellor Merz, who is on his first official visit to India. Merz arrived earlier in the day at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, where he was welcomed by local officials and dignitaries.

Kite Flying at Sabarmati

After the formal inauguration, the two leaders participated in the festival by taking a ride through the venue in an open vehicle. Standing atop the vehicle, they tried their hands at kite flying, engaging with the local festivities and enthusiasts. The colorful display saw kites soaring against the clear Gujarat sky, reflecting a perfect blend of cultural tradition and international goodwill.

In addition to flying kites, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz interacted with women artisans who create traditional kites, gaining insight into the intricate process of kite-making. The Gujarat government reported that 135 kites from 50 countries and over 1,000 Indian kite enthusiasts were participating in this year’s festival, which is expected to attract more than 5 lakh visitors, surpassing last year’s footfall of 3.83 lakh.

The kite festival has become an important cultural event in Gujarat, especially during Makar Sankranti, which is celebrated to mark the harvest season and the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. The festival is a symbol of joy, community participation, and traditional artistry, drawing participants and tourists from across the country and abroad.

German Chancellor Merz’s India Visit

Chancellor Merz’s maiden official visit to India is focused on strengthening the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which recently completed 25 years. The visit underscores collaboration across multiple areas including science, innovation, research, green and sustainable development, and people-to-people ties.

On the day of the festival, the Chancellor’s itinerary included:

• Visit to Sabarmati Ashram at 9:30 am: A historical and symbolic site, the Ashram reflects India’s freedom struggle and Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy.
• Inauguration of the Kite Festival at 10 am: Where he flew kites with PM Modi and engaged with local artisans.
• Bilateral engagements at Mahatma Mandir at 11:15 am: High-level discussions focused on deepening economic, technological, and strategic cooperation.

Officials indicated that talks between the Indian Prime Minister and the German Chancellor would include trade and investment, advanced technology and innovation, education and mobility, and defense and security cooperation. The discussions aim to enhance bilateral relations and explore joint initiatives in sustainable development, clean energy, and people-to-people exchanges.

Cultural Diplomacy Through Kite Flying

The act of flying kites together serves as a symbolic gesture of friendship and collaboration, highlighting cultural diplomacy as an important facet of international relations. Gujarat, with its rich history of kite festivals, provides a visually striking backdrop for fostering goodwill and mutual understanding between the two nations.

Through this engagement, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz not only celebrated a traditional Indian festival but also used the occasion to showcase Gujarat’s vibrant cultural heritage to the visiting dignitary. The interactions with artisans and kite enthusiasts reflect a broader emphasis on community engagement and grassroots cultural promotion, signaling the importance India places on blending tradition with contemporary international partnerships.

Festival Significance

Makar Sankranti, observed across India in mid-January, is synonymous with harvest celebrations, kite flying, and communal festivities. Gujarat, in particular, has become globally known for its kite festivals, which attract both domestic and international participants. The festival is not only a celebration of agriculture and the sun’s northward movement but also an occasion to bring communities together in joy and friendly competition.

The International Kite Festival 2026 at the Sabarmati Riverfront has grown in scale over the years, incorporating kites from around the world, workshops on kite-making, and interactive cultural programs. The presence of global leaders like Chancellor Merz emphasizes the soft power potential of cultural events in fostering international ties.

Looking Ahead

Chancellor Merz’s visit is expected to set the tone for enhanced bilateral cooperation between India and Germany. With a focus on sustainable development, green technology, and innovation-driven collaboration, the visit aims to strengthen ties across economic, technological, and strategic sectors.

Meanwhile, the kite-flying session with PM Modi represents a lighter, more human side of diplomacy, where leaders engage with local traditions, understand cultural nuances, and foster a spirit of camaraderie. Such initiatives contribute to a positive narrative of international friendship and highlight India’s role in blending culture with diplomacy.

As the festival continues over the coming days, kite enthusiasts and tourists are expected to witness vibrant displays of kites in multiple colors, patterns, and sizes, alongside workshops, cultural programs, and performances that celebrate Gujarat’s rich heritage.

In conclusion, the joint kite-flying session of PM Modi and German Chancellor Merz at the Sabarmati Riverfront not only marks the festive spirit of Makar Sankranti but also underscores India’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and bilateral engagement. Against the backdrop of soaring kites, the event symbolized friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between two nations working towards deeper strategic and cultural ties.