LAHORE: A vibrant three-day Basant festival is set to commence in Lahore from February 6, 2026, marking a revival of the historic celebration after the Punjab government lifted an 18-year ban on this colorful and culturally significant event. This decision comes with stringent regulations to ensure safety.
The ban, originally imposed in 2007, stemmed from a rising number of fatalities and serious injuries caused by sharp kite strings, particularly affecting motorcyclists and passengers, alongside incidents of celebratory gunfire during the festivities.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari confirmed on Wednesday that the Basant festival will take place from February 6 to 8, 2026. She emphasized that the event would be conducted under strict surveillance, ensuring it is safe and well-regulated.
Bokhari outlined the government’s firm stance on safety measures, mentioning that comprehensive conditions have been established to prevent any loss of life during the three-day event. Last week, the provincial government enacted the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance, 2025, effectively lifting the ban through legislative action.
Under this ordinance, sub-inspector-ranked police officers have been granted authority to arrest individuals and carry out searches without warrants in cases supported by credible evidence. The ordinance has already been presented before the Punjab Assembly for formal approval.
Origins of Basant
Historically, Basant holds deep cultural roots in Punjab, with Maharaja Ranjit Singh popularizing the festival in the 19th century by introducing kite flying as a key component of annual celebrations. The city of Lahore evolved into the focal point of the festival, which continues to be celebrated widely across Punjab today, including regions in Indian Punjab and eventually throughout Pakistan.
Traditionally, Basant turns the skies into a vivid spectacle as countless kites in various shapes and sizes are flown from rooftops. Competitions among kite enthusiasts intensify with the use of specially crafted strings embedded with shards of glass designed to sever the threads of rival kites.
