LAHORE: The city of Lahore is alive with the colors and excitement of Basant, as kite-flying enthusiasts prepare for the annual festival. From historic neighbourhoods to modern areas, the festival’s spirit is visible across the city.
Mochi Gate has emerged as Lahore’s busiest Basant market. Citizens from across the city and surrounding areas have flocked to buy kites and strings. Shops are crowded, and long queues are forming outside popular stores. Reports indicate that shop windows have broken under the rush, showing both the festival’s popularity and pressure on markets.
High Prices Challenge Buyers
Despite the excitement, soaring prices have dampened spirits for many. A one-taawa kite is being sold between Rs300 and Rs400, while a one-and-a-half taawa kite costs around Rs400 to Rs600. Kite strings, especially, are proving expensive. Two-piece pinna is priced between Rs8,000 and Rs10,000, and 200-piece strings cost up to Rs12,000.
Many young Lahoris, however, remain determined to celebrate. “No matter how high prices go, we will fly kites,” some said, highlighting the festival’s deep cultural significance.
Citywide Preparations in Full Swing
Preparations for Basant are underway across Lahore, with colorful signboards decorating main highways. Organizers are readying what is expected to be the largest kite in history at Liberty Chowk. Historic sites, such as Barud Khana Haveli, have been painted in Basant colors, and songs and themed clothing are in high demand. Singer Mazhar Rahi has prepared a special Bhangra track for the festival.
Government Rules and Safety Measures
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said the government has issued clear rules for Basant celebrations. Traffic police have distributed one million safety rods, and public transport, including buses, rickshaws, and taxis, will provide free travel during the three-day festival. Authorities are also using QR codes on kites, strings, and baskets to monitor sales and ensure compliance with regulations.
In other news read more about Basant in Lahore: First-Day Sales of Kites And Strings Cross Rs 150 Million
Bukhari credited Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for reviving the festival after 25 years, saying it provides an opportunity to celebrate Lahore’s cultural heritage safely.
