Amit Shah Calls for Delhi to Become National Kite Festival Center
Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the 3rd International Kite Festival in New Delhi on Friday. He made a strong appeal to the Delhi government and the Delhi Development Authority. Shah urged them to form a special committee immediately. This committee would work to transform Delhi into the national hub for kite festivities.
Expanding the Festival for National Unity
Addressing the crowd at the festival, Amit Shah shared his vision. "The kite festival has the power to connect people across our entire country," he stated. "In the coming years, it can truly become a national festival." He directed his request specifically to the Delhi administration and the DDA.
Shah emphasized the need for concrete action. He wants the proposed committee to focus on three key areas. First, they must establish Delhi as the undisputed center for kite celebrations in India. Second, they need to work on expanding the scale and reach of the festival. Third, and most importantly, they must ensure massive public participation to create a grand nationwide celebration.
Celebrating India's Festival Culture and History
The Home Minister reflected on India's deep cultural roots. He quoted the ancient poet Kalidasa, saying "Utsav-priya janah," which means the people of India love festivals. Shah noted that festivals occur throughout the year across the nation. These events bring society together and foster a shared collective vision. He pointed out that Uttarayan, the kite-flying season, is a vital part of this rich tradition.
Shah also connected kites to India's struggle for freedom. He recalled the historic protests against the Simon Commission. The slogan "Simon Go Back" became a powerful symbol of resistance. "The most impactful protest happened during Uttarayan," Shah explained. "People all over the country flew kites with 'Simon Go Back' written on them. They filled the sky, demonstrating their collective strength to the British rulers."
Honoring Resilience at Somnath Temple
During his address, Amit Shah also spoke about the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. This event marks the 1000th anniversary of the first attack on the Somnath temple. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with creating this observance.
"The power of those who build is far greater than that of those who destroy," Shah declared. He named historical figures like Mahmud of Ghazni, Mahmud Begada, and Alauddin Khilji. These are the ones who attacked the temple. Shah noted they are nowhere to be seen on the world map today. In contrast, the Somnath temple still stands proudly in its original location, visible to the entire world.
He described this as a powerful symbol. It represents the eternal nature and immortality of Sanatana Dharma. It shows that the fundamental elements of Indian culture are truly immortal. The Indian government and several state governments have now decided to observe a Somnath Swabhiman Varsh, following this initiative.
The minister's speech wove together themes of cultural celebration, historical pride, and national unity. He positioned the humble kite as both a tool for joy and a symbol of India's enduring spirit.
