Basant Festival Returns to Punjab
After a 25-year hiatus, the government of Punjab has officially allowed the Basant festival to be celebrated across the province, as detailed in Punjab Grants Conditional Permission for Kite Flying After 25 Years. The colorful kite-flying festival will take place in Lahore and other cities on 6th, 7th, and 8th February, marking the first legal return of the tradition since 2001.
Provincial authorities have emphasized that this year’s celebrations will come with strict rules and regulations. Violations of these rules will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
QR Codes to Regulate Kite Sales
According to government sources, special QR codes will be issued for the sale and use of kites and kite strings. Only items with these codes will be legally available in markets, allowing authorities to monitor and control the materials used during the festival.
Officials stressed that activities such as firing guns, engaging in street fights, or any other dangerous behavior will be strictly prohibited. Those found violating these regulations will face immediate legal action.
Legal Framework and Ordinance
Earlier this week, Governor of Punjab Salim Haider signed an ordinance granting conditional permission for Basant celebrations. The ordinance includes multiple strict guidelines for kite flying, aimed at ensuring public safety while reviving the tradition.
Kite flying was banned across Punjab in 2001 due to frequent accidents and fatalities caused by sharp kite strings, locally known as manjha. Now, after nearly a quarter-century, the festival is being reintroduced within a controlled and limited framework.
Age Restrictions and Parental Responsibility
Under the new rules, minors under 18 years old will not be allowed to participate in kite flying. In cases of non-compliance, parents or guardians will be held legally responsible for their children’s actions. This measure is intended to reduce accidents and ensure that safety is prioritized during celebrations.
Strict Regulations on Kite Strings
Only kite strings made of traditional thread will be permitted. The use of metallic or sharp-edged strings will attract severe penalties. Violators could face 3 to 5 years in prison and fines of up to 2 million Pakistani rupees (approximately $6,000–$7,000 USD).
Motorcyclists are also required to follow special safety measures, including protective gear, to prevent accidents during the festival. These precautions aim to reduce injuries, which were a significant concern in past Basant celebrations.
Cultural Revival with Safety in Focus
The Punjab government has stated that with strict monitoring and clear regulations, Basant can be celebrated in a safe, enjoyable, and culturally vibrant manner. Authorities hope that the festival will not only revive a cherished local tradition but also promote public safety and community engagement.
Historically, Basant has been a major cultural event in Punjab, particularly in Lahore, where kite-flying competitions would draw crowds from across the province. Its return has been welcomed by cultural enthusiasts, but officials remain cautious about potential risks.
By implementing QR codes, age limits, and strict penalties, the government aims to balance cultural celebration with public safety, ensuring that the festival can be enjoyed by families without incident.
