Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz jointly inaugurated the International Kite Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad on Monday, following a solemn visit to the historic Sabarmati Ashram. The German Chancellor, on his first official bilateral visit to India outside the EU and NATO, began his two-day tour with a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
Homage to Gandhi's Legacy at Sabarmati Ashram
The day's engagements commenced at the Gandhi Ashram on the banks of the Sabarmati River. Both leaders paid floral tributes to a statue of the Father of the Nation. They later visited Hriday Kunj, Gandhi's residence within the ashram, and observed the traditional process of weaving khadi.
In a significant gesture, Chancellor Merz wrote in the visitors' book, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Gandhi's ideals. The Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust shared an English translation of his message, where he stated, "Mahatma Gandhi's unshakeable belief in the power of freedom and the dignity of each and every individual inspires us to this day." He added that this shared human legacy unites Indians and Germans as friends, "in a world that may more than ever be in need of Gandhi's teachings."
A Spectacular Inauguration at Sabarmati Riverfront
From the ashram, the dignitaries proceeded to the Sabarmati Riverfront for the grand opening of the International Kite Festival 2026. The venue at Vallabh Sadan on the west bank was decorated with old Haveli-like structures representing Ahmedabad's traditional 'pols' or residential clusters. PM Modi explained the city's heritage and culture to Chancellor Merz through these displays.
A vibrant colour blast in the hues of the Indian and German flags welcomed the leaders on the East bank as they viewed the Riverfront. They took a tour of the venue in an open vehicle under a sky dotted with colourful kites. Both leaders enthusiastically tried their hand at flying kites, and Chancellor Merz was also given a live demonstration of kite-making.
Global Participation and Diplomatic Agenda
The festival boasts massive participation, with 1,071 kite flyers from across the globe. This includes 135 participants from 50 countries, 65 from 13 Indian states, and 871 from 16 districts within Gujarat. Countries represented include Germany, Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Jordan, Australia, and Indonesia.
Following the festival inauguration, Chancellor Merz was scheduled to travel to Gandhinagar for a high-level meeting with PM Modi at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre. The discussions were expected to cover a range of bilateral issues, including defence and skill development, with press statements to follow. The Chancellor will spend the night in Ahmedabad before departing for Bengaluru on Tuesday morning.
This visit marks a key moment in India-Germany relations, underscoring cultural ties while setting the stage for strengthened strategic and economic cooperation.
