After an 18-year hiatus, the skies of Lahore are set to come alive once again with colour and celebration as the three-day Basant festival is scheduled to begin from February 6 to 8, 2026.

The Punjab government has officially lifted the long-standing ban on the historic festival under strict safety regulations, marking a hopeful return of one of the city’s most cherished cultural traditions.

Basant was banned in 2007 following a tragic rise in deaths and serious injuries caused by hazardous kite strings and celebratory gunfire, particularly affecting motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Acknowledging those painful memories, authorities have emphasized that public safety will remain the highest priority this time.

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari confirmed the dates, assuring that the festival would be “completely safe, regulated, and strictly monitored.”

Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb also announced that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the revival of the beloved Basant festival, calling it a tradition “rooted in history and admired worldwide.”

To ensure public safety, a city-wide campaign to install protective safety antennas on all motorbikes will begin immediately.

Officials have stated that every motorcycle in Lahore will be fitted with an antenna before and during the festival to prevent injuries from sharp kite strings.

“Spring is returning to the city of heritage and festivals. Lahore’s skies will speak in colour again,” Marriyum Aurangzeb said.

The revival follows the promulgation of the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance, 2025, which empowers law enforcement to strictly enforce safety measures. The ordinance has also been submitted to the Punjab Assembly for formal enactment.

Basant, also known as Basant Panchami, marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes hope, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Its roots trace back to the 19th century when Maharaja Ranjit Singh introduced kite flying as a centerpiece of the annual Basant fair. Over time, Lahore became the heart of this vibrant celebration, with the tradition spreading across Punjab and beyond.

As the festival prepares to return, authorities and citizens alike are hopeful that Basant will once again bring joy, colour, and cultural pride to Lahore this time with safety, responsibility, and collective care at its core.