Gujarat: International Kite Festival attendees show excitement

Gujarat: Ahead of Saturday’s International Kite Festival (IKF) in Gujarat, kite flyers from all over the globe lauded the ambiance and expressed their excitement about joining in the festivities.

London-based kite flyer Spini Marshall told IANS, “This is my second trip to Surat and my third trip to India. They offer us delicious meals and are really kind. In addition, the decorating is fantastic. I’m having fun.

It was called the “best festival of the world” by Rumy from Lebanon.

He also recalled how “fantastic” and “cool” Prime Minister Narendra Modi was when he had the chance to meet him before.

Sun from Turkey told IANS, “This is my first time in India,” expressing his pleasure over taking part in the celebration. I had heard great things about India from folks I met at previous events.

Together with well-known figures like Tom and Jerry, our kites are unique in a few colors. If we get a chance, I want to fly it today,” he said.

“This is the first time I am here,” said another kite flier. I am thrilled to be here. I’m hoping the wind will be strong enough to lift my kite, which is around thirty meters long. Additionally, we have some handcrafted ones with us.

She also called the city’s cleaning and recycling efforts “vibrant” and applauded them.

As part of the traditional Uttarayan festivities, the IKF is conducted in January to commemorate Makar Sankranti, a significant Hindu holiday that marks the end of winter and the start of the harvest season.

The event will take place between January 10 and January 14. The Gujarat Tourism Department organizes the event, which draws tourists and kite fliers from all over the globe.

The festival’s primary location is Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Riverfront, although festivities will also be held in Surat, Rajkot, Vadodara, and Dwarka, among other towns in the state.

The event will include kite flyers from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, and Indonesia. Traditional Indian kite makers will fly colorful “patangs” and “tukals” alongside them, enhancing the joyous mood.

Particularly for kids and visitors, workshops on kite-making and kite-flying are arranged so they may learn more about the custom.