International Kite Festival 2026: Gujarat’s Skies Come Alive with Color; PM Modi Extends Uttarayan Wishes

Ahmedabad, January 14, 2026: The vibrant spirit of Gujarat has reached its peak today as the sky over the Sabarmati Riverfront turned into a colorful canvas for the International Kite Festival (Uttarayan). Thousands of people have gathered at various venues across the state to celebrate the transition of the Sun into the northern hemisphere. From giant professional kites to traditional paper kites, the festival has once again showcased India's rich cultural heritage and its growing global appeal.

Highlights of the Festival at Sabarmati Riverfront

This year, the festival hosted participants from over 50 countries, bringing unique kite designs and flying techniques to Ahmedabad.

• Giant Kites and Inflatables: The major attractions were the massive inflatable kites shaped like tigers, mythological characters, and even a "Digital India" themed drone-style kite.

• Celebrity Presence & Wishes: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to wish the nation on Uttarayan, highlighting the festival's message of high spirits and harmony. Several top leaders and Bollywood stars were also spotted on terraces across Ahmedabad and Surat, joining the "Kai Po Che!" chants.

• Economic Boost: Local kite markets in Jamalpur and Raipur remained open 24/7 over the last few days, recording record-breaking sales of traditional manjha and paper kites.

Safety First: The Focus on "Bird-Safe" Manjha

With viral videos showing the scale of the festival, the Gujarat government and NGOs have launched a massive awareness campaign regarding safety.

• Nylon Manjha Ban: There is a strict crackdown on the sale of Chinese or nylon (glass-coated) manjha, which is deadly for birds and commuters.

• Save the Birds: Special helplines have been set up by the Forest Department to rescue birds injured during kite flying.

• Commuter Safety: Two-wheeler riders have been advised to install "neck guards" (wire protectors) on their vehicles to avoid injuries from stray kite strings.

The Spirit of 'Kai Po Che!'

Uttarayan in Gujarat is not just about kites; it is a community celebration. Families have gathered on rooftops since early morning, enjoying traditional delicacies like Undhiyu, Jalebi, and Til Chikki. The energy remains high throughout the day, ending with the beautiful sight of Tukkals (paper lanterns) lighting up the night sky.