The Kankaria Carnival in Ahmedabad began its seven-day extravaganza on a spectacular note, drawing a massive crowd of over 1.31 lakh visitors on its opening day, which coincided with Christmas, December 25. This annual cultural spectacle, organized by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), is expected to attract a total of 20 to 25 lakh people over its week-long duration.
A Festival Born from Revitalization
The carnival's origins are deeply intertwined with the transformation of the historic Kankaria Lakefront. Launched in December 2008 by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, the event was conceived after extensive restoration work on the lakefront concluded that same year. The vision was to create a unified platform for Ahmedabad's diverse cultural associations.
Retired bureaucrat I P Gautam, the former municipal commissioner who oversaw the launch, recalled the inaugural event. "The first carnival was organised by nearly 16-17 cultural associations in Ahmedabad from Bihar, Bengali, Odia, Tamil, Malayalam, and others," he stated. He also noted that the Atal Express toy train was inaugurated during the first carnival as a tribute to the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Safety, Security, and Spectacular Shows
Given the enormous expected turnout, authorities have implemented robust security measures. More than 110 CCTV cameras monitor the premises, with an additional 34 cameras at all seven gates for headcount and facial recognition. The AMC has also secured personal accident, fire, and public liability insurance for all visitors.
The entertainment lineup is vast and varied. Each evening will conclude with performances by renowned artists like Kirtidan Gadhvi, Geeta Rabari, and Parth Oza. The schedule is packed with events ranging from rock band performances, musical nights, and live Bhavai to workshops on handicrafts, wellness, and social media. A nightly light and sound show, laser display, and drone show will add to the visual spectacle.
Record Attempts and Daily Attractions
The carnival's first day featured an ambitious attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest balloon mosaic. Over 3,500 sanitation workers of the AMC collaborated on this project, with a decision from the record-keeping body awaited.
Beyond the special events, visitors can enjoy the permanent attractions of the Kankaria complex, including the Kids City, Zoo, Nocturnal Zoo, Butterfly Garden, Musical Fountain, and Fish Aquarium. The daily schedule also incorporates health and wellness activities like pranayama and yoga in the mornings, and dedicated children's programmes in the afternoons.
From its chaotic, multi-stage beginnings in 2008 to its current status as a meticulously planned cultural landmark, the Kankaria Carnival continues to evolve. It stands not just as a major entertainment festival for Ahmedabad but as a vital centre for the city's cultural identity, collective enjoyment, and tourism development.
