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Pakistan’s cultural capital erupts in
color as kite-flying Basant festival ends 20-year hiatus
[February 07, 2026]
By BABAR DOGAR
LAHORE,
Pakistan (AP) — A burst of color lit up Lahore’s night sky overnight as
Pakistan’s cultural capital relaunched the Basant kite-flying festival
after nearly two decades.
Authorities said Friday that the celebration has been allowed only under
strict safety regulations, warning that the use of hazardous kite
strings that endanger lives could lead to arrests. |
Students dance on traditional drum beat during a gathering to celebrate
three-day kite flying festival 'Basant' at their university campus, in
Lahore, Pakistan, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary) |
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Kite-flying had been banned in the province since 2005 following
a series of fatal accidents. Razor-sharp metal- or glass-coated
strings used in competitive kite fighting killed about a dozen
people, mostly motorcyclists and bystanders two decades ago,
prompting the government to impose broad restrictions across
Punjab and effectively halt Basant.
This year, officials say strict safety measures are in place.
Motorcyclists are required to install tall, antenna-like metal
rods on their bikes to prevent airborne strings from causing
injury. The provincial government also declared a two-day public
holiday to reduce traffic and lower accident risks.
The government of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif
recently lifted the ban, emphasizing that the festival’s revival
would be strictly regulated and violators could face fines or
imprisonment.
As midnight marked the start of the two-day celebration,
rooftops across the city came alive with families and friends
launching vibrant kites into the cool night air.
“We’re finally seeing it again after so many years,” said Ashfaq
Ahmed, 23, flying a kite from his rooftop in Lahore’s old city.
“If people avoid dangerous strings, hopefully this joyful
festival can continue safely in the future.”
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