Indian Community commends govt, donate blood, as they mark Kite Flying Day

KAMPALA - The skies over Makerere University Business School (MUBS), in Uganda’s Capital Kampala, came alive with a burst of colours displaying diverse kite designs as the Indian Community in Uganda celebrated the International Kite Flying Festival 2026.

The event featured diverse kite designs, kite-flying competitions, food and drink stalls, and family-friendly activities like bouncing castles and face painting.

The International Kite Festival, also known as Uttarayan, is an annual two-day kite-flying festival held every January, but in Uganda, it was postponed to February 22 as the country was in election period in the first month of the year.

Speaking during the event, Tushar Vyas, the secretary of the group, said the event is significant for promoting cultural unity, artistic creativity, and the joy of outdoor activity and symbolises renewal, community bonding, and the release of stress.

Organised by the Uganda Brahma Samaj and the Indian Association of Uganda, with several sponsors and partners on board, the event saw kite markets set up alongside food stalls and performers.

Speaking during the event, Tushar Vyas, the secretary of the group, said the event is significant for promoting cultural unity, artistic creativity, and the joy of outdoor activity and symbolises renewal, community bonding, and the release of stress.

Beyond the mere enjoyment of kite flying, International Kite Day holds symbolic importance. The act of sending a kite up into the sky symbolises freedom, dreams, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Sanket Byas, the group’s treasurer, commended Uganda’s government for creating an environment which has enabled investment stimulated by peace and development of infrastructure.

The event saw kite markets set up alongside food stalls and performers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of International Kite Day is how it fosters community bonding. At MUBs, the Indian Community and the general public, families, friends, and even strangers come together to celebrate this day, sharing stories, laughter, and the thrill of sending their kites aloft.

"It’s a time when generations unite, passing down the art of kite flying to younger members of the community. International Kite Day marks the change of seasons and the arrival of longer days. People of all ages fly colourful kites, making the sky look beautiful and vibrant. Over time, this festival has become popular worldwide, bringing joy, togetherness, and a sense of celebration. Kite flying is a fun tradition that connects people and spreads happiness’’, said one of the organisers.

The Indian community is a cornerstone of Uganda's economy, contributing an estimated 65% of the nation's tax revenue as of 2025, driving significant growth through investments in manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and real estate, while creating thousands of jobs and fostering social development through health and education projects.

The community contributes to health and social causes, including organising blood donation drives and sponsoring children for life-saving heart surgeries in India.