Basant, Pakistan’s famous but deadly kite-flying festival, has made a cautious return to Lahore after a 19-year ban, marking the start of spring with revellers taking to rooftops to fly kites under newly implemented safety protocols. The festival, which dates back centuries, was prohibited in 2007 following numerous injuries and fatalities caused by sharp strings, celebratory gunfire, and falls, but authorities have now lifted the ban with strict measures to mitigate risks.
As the sun set over Lahore, families and friends gathered on rooftops across the city, launching kites that zigzagged and soared through the sky. For many younger participants, this was their first experience of Basant, as the ban has been in place for most of their lives. Abu Bakar Ahmad, a 25-year-old tech engineer, expressed excitement while learning from his cousin, highlighting the generational gap in kite-flying skills. Others, like Kanwal Amin, emphasized the social bonding and festive atmosphere that defines the event.
The ban was originally imposed after years of tragic incidents. Kite strings coated with powdered glass or made from metal and chemical materials led to severe injuries, particularly for motorcyclists who could have their throats cut by threads draped across roads. Celebratory aerial firing and falls from rooftops added to the death toll, prompting authorities to halt the festival in 2007 to protect public safety. These risks had turned a cultural celebration into a public health concern, necessitating the long hiatus.
To ensure a safer revival, the Punjab government has introduced comprehensive safety measures. The festival is now limited to three days, and large kites are banned to reduce the strength of strings required. Motorcyclists have been provided with metal rods on their handlebars to deflect strings, and nets have been installed over certain streets to prevent strings from falling onto electricity wires, which previously caused electric shocks and short circuits. Additionally, sales of kites and strings before February 1 were prohibited, with police seizing over 100,000 kites and 2,100 rolls of dangerous material.
Authorities are closely monitoring the festival through enhanced surveillance. Deputy Inspector General Faisal Kamran stated that drones, repositioned CCTV cameras, and on-ground officers are keeping watch on rooftops to enforce rules and prevent the use of banned materials or weapons. This proactive approach aims to balance tradition with safety, ensuring that the joyous occasion does not revert to its dangerous past. The measures reflect a collaborative effort between law enforcement and community leaders to foster a secure environment.
The return of Basant has sparked joy and nostalgia among residents, with many expressing emotional connections to the tradition. Kashif Siddiqui, a pharmacist, shared memories of past festivals with his now-grown son, emphasizing the deep cultural roots that run through generations. Mina Sikander traveled from Miami to participate, underscoring the festival’s emotional pull for the diaspora and its significance as a cultural touchstone. Vendors reported brisk sales, with one seller, Usman, moving over 7,000 kites in just a few days, indicating widespread public enthusiasm.
Economically, the festival provides a substantial boost to Lahore’s local economy. Yousaf Salahuddin, a longtime advocate, noted that revenue flows to street vendors, restaurants, artisans, and other small businesses, with hotels fully booked and extra flights arriving to accommodate visitors. This economic ripple effect highlights how cultural events can support livelihoods and community resilience, making the revival not just a celebration but also an economic driver. The festival’s return is seen as a step towards revitalizing local traditions while contributing to urban vitality.
Looking ahead, the success of these safety measures will be crucial for Basant’s future. If injuries are minimized during this trial period, the festival could become a regular, safer event, balancing heritage with modern safety standards. The Punjab government’s active promotion suggests a commitment to its continuation, provided that public safety is maintained. This cautious optimism reflects a broader trend of adapting cultural practices to contemporary needs, ensuring that traditions like Basant endure for generations to come.
