Kites return to Lahore skies as Basant comes alive again after 25 years
2026-02-06 - 04:46
LAHORE – The vibrant Basant Festival officially began at midnight as Punjab Information Minister, Azma Bokhari, launched the event by flying a kite. The skies of Lahore were soon filled with kites, replacing the stars above the city. People gathered on rooftops, continuing the tradition of kite flying, while the streets were alive with excitement as the festival commenced. عظمیٰ بخاری صاحبہ بھی یوتھیوں کو جلانے کا کوئ موقع ہاتھ سے جانے نہیں دیتی 🪁🔥 pic.twitter.com/VRxMaXFjbD — میاں عامر 🦁 (@LegiMian) February 5, 2026 Women participated enthusiastically, dressing in colorful clothes, applying henna on their hands, and preparing delicious local dishes to celebrate the occasion. Some women even joined the fun by flying kites themselves, adding to the festive atmosphere. 📷#BasantFestival #PhirAaiBasant #Basant2026Lahori girls wearing Yellow on Basant as per CM Punjab@MaryamNSharif’s advice pic.twitter.com/p1s1SNQgyA — Maya (@Maya136200) February 6, 2026 Despite the rising costs of kites and string, Lahore’s streets and alleys were adorned with flying kites, as people made the most of the long-awaited festival. The city was buzzing with energy, with citizens eager to witness the return of Basant after a hiatus. Lahore ❤️#Basant pic.twitter.com/gKXuKPPH2O — Hanan (@Hanxyz00) February 5, 2026 Punjab Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, shared a video on social media to mark the festival’s opening, showing people flying kites and enjoying the night. “Kites return to the skies of Lahore as Basant comes alive again after 25 years! A celebration of culture, colour, and community! Let’s enjoy the festivities together responsibly, follow all safety SOPs, and make this Basant safe for everyone,” she said in a post shared on X. Kites return to the skies of Lahore as Basant comes alive again after 25 years! A celebration of culture, colour, and community! Let’s enjoy the festivities together responsibly, follow all safety SOPs, and make this Basant safe for everyone ❤️ pic.twitter.com/0Ysvq2bY4O — Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) February 5, 2026 Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also visited Liberty Chowk to assess the preparations for the event. During her visit, she interacted with citizens and encouraged motorcycle riders to wear safety helmets. Citizens expressed gratitude for the return of Basant and praised the measures being taken to ensure its safe celebration.