Gujarat comes alive to mark International Kite Festival during Uttarayan

Jan 10, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad on January 12, coinciding with Uttarayan or Makar Sankranti. The three-day festival (January 12–14) will host 135 international kite enthusiasts from 50 countries, 65 participants from across India, and 871 local flyers from Gujarat. Beyond the celebration, the festival sustains livelihoods, supporting thousands of families. Gujarat produces nearly 65% of India’s kites, with a market worth over ₹6.5 billion and employment for 1,30,000 people, including home-based artisans and large vendors. The craft of colourful kites and manja, requiring skill and precision, continues across generations. The skies of Gujarat come alive with kites, symbolising tradition, hard work, and festive joy.