After nearly two decades, the sights and sounds of Basant may once again fill the skies of Punjab. On Tuesday, the provincial government officially lifted the ban on kite flying, allowing the much-loved festival to return — but under a tightly controlled regulatory framework aimed at preventing the tragedies that led to its ban in the first place.
A senior minister in Lahore has called a key meeting to discuss whether Basant should be celebrated this year. The meeting will focus on possible festival dates, security plans, and administrative arrangements.
Officials say two sets of dates are being considered based on weather, logistics, and expected public turnout:
- February 14–15
- March 21–22
A Festival Once Stopped by Tragedy
Punjab had banned Basant back in the year 2007 after they had seen a rise in fatal accidents caused by dangerous, glass-coated kite strings. Motorcyclists, children, and pedestrians often became victims of stray strings that were almost invisible until it was too late.
Celebratory gunfire added to the list of risks. The government had to deal with it to nip the evil in the bud and was left with no choice but to halt a festival that had become synonymous with joy, but also heartbreaking loss.
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Kite Flying Tradition Rooted in Culture and History
Basant Panchami is traditionally a celebration of spring, prosperity, and good fortune. Its cultural roots in Punjab run deep — as far back as the 19th century, when Maharaja Ranjit Singh held grand Basant fairs and made kite flying a central feature.
Lahore became the heart of Basant festivities, with rooftops turning into lively battlefields of colour and friendly competition. Over time, the tradition spread across Pakistan and Indian Punjab, becoming a symbol of festivity, community and the arrival of spring.
Regulated Basant: Safety First
The revival emerges under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, approved by Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan. The ordinance introduces strict rules that are listed below with clear terms:
• Under-18s are banned from kite flying.
• A fine of Rs 50,000 for the first violation and Rs 100,000 for repeat offences.
• If a minor violates rules, their guardian or father faces action for unpaid fines.
• All kite makers, sellers, and kite-flying associations must be registered with the deputy commissioner.
• Every kite will carry a QR code to identify its manufacturer.
• Metallic, chemical-coated, and sharp strings are completely banned; only thread-based strings will be permitted.
• Violators are expected to encounter spending life in jail for 3 to 5 years, and they would have to pay a fine of up to Rs 2 million.
Awaiting Assembly Approval
Though the governor has promulgated the ordinance, it must still be passed by the provincial assembly — a vote expected soon after the previous session was adjourned due to lack of quorum.
For many in Punjab, Basant’s return sparks nostalgia and excitement. But this time, the festival is coming back with a clear message: celebrate with joy and feel pleasure, but not at the cost of human life.