Ahmedabad: Visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday took part in India’s traditional kite-flying celebrations as he joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the International Kite Flying Festival in Ahmedabad, marking a vibrant display of culture and diplomacy.
The skies over Ahmedabad were filled with colourful kites symbolising India’s cultural heritage, national pride and growing global stature. Kites depicting Lord Hanuman, Operation Sindoor and the Tricolour drew attention, reflecting India’s spiritual roots, military strength and national resolve.
The Bharatiya Janata Party described the event as more than a ceremonial gesture, calling it a reflection of a confident and rising India that embraces its traditions while engaging with the world. BJP leader Amit Malviya said the festival represented India’s civilisational spirit and its readiness to share its culture globally without hesitation.
According to Malviya, the presence of Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz together at the festival highlighted India’s blend of tradition, national confidence and international partnerships.
Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz are scheduled to hold bilateral talks in Ahmedabad later in the day, focusing on strengthening ties between India and Germany.
This marks Friedrich Merz’s first official visit to India.
