International Kite Festival to kick off in Secunderabad on Jan 13

Hyderabad: The stage is all set for the 7th International Kite Festival in Secunderabad.

The three-day event will take place at Parade Grounds from January 13 to 15.

Organized by the state tourism and cultural department, the vibrant event coincides with the Sankranti celebrations. The event will bring together kite flyers from across the globe and India, promising a unique cultural experience.

Global Participation

The festival will feature 50 international kite flyers representing countries like Indonesia, Switzerland, Australia, Sri Lanka, Canada, Cambodia, Scotland, Thailand, Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Italy, Taiwan, South Africa, and the Netherlands.

In addition to the international flyers, 60 participants from Indian states, including Gujarat, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, will demonstrate their kite-flying skills.

Facilities and Timings

The festival will run daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., featuring a series of kite displays and cultural programs. To ensure visitor comfort, the organizers are setting up shamiana tents, drinking water stations, and play areas for children.

Sweets Festival and Culinary Delights

As part of the celebrations, a sweets festival will be held alongside the kite festival. Around 1,100 national and international sweets and flour-based dishes will be showcased.

“This year, 700 homemakers from countries like Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, and nine others will introduce visitors to traditional delicacies,” an official added.

The sweets festival will provide a glimpse into diverse culinary traditions, with dishes from across India and abroad.

Expected Footfall and Free Entry

Authorities anticipate a turnout of approximately 15 lakh visitors over the three-day event. Entry to the festival will be free, encouraging maximum participation.

“The kite festival has always been a family-friendly event. We are expecting people of all age groups to join the celebrations and make the festival a grand success,” said a spokesperson for the cultural department.

Visitors can look forward to an engaging experience that highlights Hyderabad’s cultural richness.