German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Pays Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Sabarmati Ashram, Joins PM Modi at International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad
German Chancellor Merz Begins First India Visit with Sabarmati Ashram Homage: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Monday as part of his first official visit to India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Merz began the day by visiting the historic Sabarmati Ashram, where they paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.
Prime Minister Modi welcomed Chancellor Merz at the Ashram, after which the two leaders offered flowers at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. They also visited Hridaya Kunj, the room where Gandhiji lived with his wife Kasturba Gandhi during India’s freedom struggle. Chancellor Merz observed the spinning of khadi yarn on the charkha, a symbol popularized by Gandhiji to promote self-reliance and indigenous production during the independence movement.
Reflecting on Gandhi’s enduring influence, Chancellor Merz said that Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy connects Indians and Germans as friends and that the present world needs Gandhi’s teachings more than ever. He echoed these sentiments in the visitor’s book at the Ashram, writing that Gandhiji’s unwavering belief in freedom and the dignity of every individual continues to inspire humanity, especially in challenging global times.
Following their visit to the Ashram, Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz proceeded to the Sabarmati Riverfront, where the Prime Minister inaugurated the International Kite Festival–2026. The two leaders interacted with women artisans, learning about the traditional process of kite making. They later toured the festival grounds in an open vehicle and also flew kites, marking a moment of cultural celebration and people-to-people engagement.
According to the Gujarat government, this year’s International Kite Festival features participation from 135 kite flyers representing 50 countries, along with nearly 1,000 kite enthusiasts from across India. As part of the festival celebrations, international participants have visited cities and heritage sites such as Rajkot, Surat, Dholavira in Kutch, and the Statue of Unity in Narmada over the past two days.
The festival in Ahmedabad will continue until January 14, showcasing India’s rich cultural traditions while strengthening international cultural ties.
ALSO READ: Winter Skincare Tips
