The Punjab government has officially announced the return of the iconic Basant festival in Lahore after an 18-year ban, with the three-day celebration scheduled for February 6–8, 2026. The historic festival—celebrated for its vibrant kite-flying tradition, colours, and cultural festivities—was originally banned in 2007 following a surge in deaths and injuries caused by dangerous kite strings and celebratory gunfire.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari confirmed the festival’s revival, stressing that Basant 2026 will be “completely safe, regulated, and strictly monitored.” The decision follows the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which lifts the ban while empowering police to act swiftly against violators.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb also shared that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved extensive safety measures, including a city-wide campaign to install safety antennas on all motorbikes to prevent accidents caused by stray strings. She added that Lahore will once again witness its skies filled with colour, reviving a cultural tradition admired worldwide.
The ordinance, currently submitted to the Punjab Assembly for enactment, allows police officers of sub-inspector rank or higher to conduct searches and make arrests without warrants based on credible information.
Deeply rooted in Punjabi heritage, Basant Panchami marks the onset of spring and has been celebrated since the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century, who institutionalised kite flying as a central part of the festivities. Lahore has long been the heart of Basant celebrations, drawing participants from across Pakistan and the region.
With strict regulations and modern safety protocols, the Punjab government aims to revive Basant responsibly, balancing cultural revival with public safety.
