The Kite Flying Association of Rawalpindi and Islamabad has announced two Basant festivals, defying the government’s strict ban on kite flying. The festivals are scheduled separately for Rawalpindi Cantonment and Rawalpindi City, despite ongoing enforcement efforts to curb the practice.
Basant Night in the Cantonment areas, including Tench Bhatta, Peoples Colony, and Dhok Syedan, will be held on February 20, followed by Basant Day on February 21. For Rawalpindi City, Basant Night is planned for February 27, with Basant Day on February 28. The association remains determined to hold the events, insisting that the government should focus on banning harmful kite strings rather than the festival itself.
Also Read: Punjab Bans Kite Flying Ahead of Basant Festival
Kite Flying Association Vice Chairman Chaudhry Iqbal stated, “Even if the punishment for Basant is 14 years in prison, the festival will continue.” White kites will be flown during Basant Night, with rooftop barbecues and feasts adding to the festivities.
Despite the government’s crackdown, kite flying persists in some areas, with enthusiasts evading authorities through covert sales and coded communication. Social media is being used to deliver kites and strings, as enthusiasts continue to participate in the traditional celebration.
