PM Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz came together to celebrate a lively cultural exchange at International Kite Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad. Both leaders enjoyed the festivities, witnessing colorful kites fill the sky in a spirited event.
The incident took place at Sabarmati Riverfront, in Ahmedabad, in western India’s Gujarat, on January 12.
Visuals show that PM Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz flew vibrant kites featuring the Indian tricolor, Lord Hanuman, and Operation Sindoor at the International Kite Festival held at Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Riverfront. The sky brimmed with kites under clear blue skies, celebrating 25 years of India-Germany relations.
According to reports, on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz attended the International Kite Festival at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. During the event, both leaders were seen flying kites featuring motifs of themselves. Kites displaying national flags of India and Germany, as well as images of Hindu deities, were also part of the festival. Visuals captured the two leaders flying a kite themed on ‘Operation Sindoor’ alongside another kite depicting Lord Hanuman. The colorful display highlighted the festive spirit while symbolizing cultural connections between the two nations.
Chancellor Merz arrived in India on Monday for a two-day official visit, his first since taking office. The visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between India and Germany. It also coincides with celebrations marking 75 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries. During his visit, the leaders are expected to review progress in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which recently completed 25 years.
The discussions between PM Modi and Chancellor Merz are expected to focus on enhancing collaboration in multiple sectors. Key areas include trade and investment, technology, education, skill development, and mobility. The two leaders will also explore ways to deepen cooperation in defense and security, science and innovation, sustainable development, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. The visit underscores the ongoing commitment of both nations to strengthen strategic and economic partnerships while fostering mutual understanding and innovation.
Prior to attending the International Kite Festival, PM Modi welcomed Chancellor Merz to the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. Both leaders paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. They visited Hriday Kunj, Gandhi’s residence within the ashram, and observed the traditional process of weaving khadi. The visit highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage and Gandhian values of simplicity, self-reliance, and dedication to freedom.
Chancellor Merz also signed the visitors’ book at the ashram. In his message, he wrote, “Mahatma Gandhi’s firm belief in the power of freedom and the heart of every individual still inspires us today.” This gesture reflected the respect for India’s history and the enduring influence of Gandhi’s philosophy on global leaders.
The two leaders are scheduled to hold delegation-level talks in Ahmedabad, focusing on advancing strategic cooperation across multiple fronts. Their discussions are expected to set the tone for future initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between India and Germany. The visit, combining cultural engagements and high-level diplomatic talks, demonstrates the multifaceted nature of bilateral relations and the importance both nations place on maintaining robust, long-term partnerships.
The International Kite Festival and visits to significant cultural sites provided an opportunity for both leaders to engage in informal interactions while celebrating shared values and milestones in India-Germany relations.