Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz jointly participated in the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on January 12, 2026. The visit marked Chancellor Merz's first official trip to India and coincided with celebrations of 75 years of diplomatic relations and 25 years of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. During the festival, both leaders were seen flying kites, with some reportedly depicting Lord Hanuman, along with other motifs like the Indian tricolor and symbols of friendship between India and Germany. The event served as a blend of cultural celebration and diplomatic engagement, showcasing India's rich heritage and strengthening people-to-people connections. Earlier in the day, PM Modi welcomed Chancellor Merz at the Sabarmati Ashram, where they paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. The German Chancellor's itinerary also included bilateral talks with PM Modi in Gandhinagar, focusing on deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, technology, education, defence, and sustainable development. While the participation of the leaders and the presence of Hanuman-themed kites are widely reported by credible sources, the original article's additional claim regarding an 'Op Sindoor Banner Soars' is not supported by any of the verified news reports. This element appears to be an uncorroborated addition by the source.