Basant finally returned to Lahore, bringing with it colour, memories, and emotions that many thought were lost forever. The festival, deeply rooted in Lahore’s culture, lit up the city’s skies once again with vibrant kites, joyful shouts, and families gathering on rooftops. For many Lahoris, it was not just a festival, it was a homecoming.
The much-awaited three-day Basant festival officially began at midnight. As the clock struck twelve, people rushed to their rooftops, especially in the Walled City areas around Mochi Gate. The sky quickly filled with colourful kites, and the familiar cries of “Bo kata” echoed through narrow streets and old neighbourhoods. Elders taught children the art of kite flying, while families shared laughter, snacks, and stories under the open sky.
For many residents, Basant represents love, warmth, and togetherness. People described it as a festival that connects generations, where grandparents relive their youth and children experience a cultural tradition for the first time. The excitement was visible everywhere, from rooftops to balconies, and even in streets where people gathered just to look up and enjoy the view.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
Basant had been banned for nearly two decades due to safety concerns, making its return an emotional moment for the city. This year, the Punjab government allowed the festival under specific rules and standard operating procedures. Many residents thanked Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for permitting Basant’s return, calling it a step towards reviving Lahore’s cultural identity.
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Several Basant-related events were also organised in different parts of the city, adding to the festive mood. Restaurants, rooftops, and old havelis became gathering spots where people celebrated responsibly, hoping that this revival would mark a new and safer chapter for the festival.
Safety Violations Cast a Shadow
Despite the joy and excitement, the celebrations were not without problems. Violations of the Basant code of conduct were reported from the very beginning. Incidents of aerial firing were reported in parts of the Walled City as unidentified individuals fired shots into the air during celebrations. Fireworks were also used at several locations, even though authorities had clearly banned them.
These unsafe actions once again raised concerns that have historically surrounded Basant. While many residents claimed that government-issued SOPs were being followed, the reality on the ground showed that not everyone took safety rules seriously.
Tragedy Amid Celebration
Sadly, the joy of Basant was overshadowed by tragic accidents. After midnight, Basant-related incidents left six people injured and one person dead. The deceased lost his life while trying to retrieve a kite that had become tangled on an electricity pole, a heartbreaking reminder of how dangerous careless behaviour can be.
Among the injured were three children, highlighting the risks faced by the most vulnerable participants. In Gulshan Ravi, an eight-year-old girl, Arha, suffered serious neck injuries after a kite string cut into her throat. She was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Such incidents have long been one of the biggest safety concerns associated with kite flying.
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In another incident on Ravi Road, a man named Saqib was injured after falling from a rooftop while flying kites. In the Lower Mall area, 12-year-old Abdul Wahid was hurt while chasing a kite on the street. In Gulshan Ravi, a 14-year-old boy, Salman, fell from a tree while trying to retrieve a kite.
These incidents turned moments of happiness into scenes of panic and sorrow for families involved. Hospitals remained on alert as emergency cases related to kite flying were reported.
Voices Calling for Responsibility
Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram also shared a message for the public, urging citizens to enjoy Basant responsibly and prioritise safety. His message resonated with many, reminding people that celebrations should never come at the cost of human lives.
Social media users echoed similar sentiments, calling on authorities and citizens alike to ensure that safety rules are strictly followed. Many stressed the need to ban dangerous kite strings, discourage risky behaviour like climbing electric poles or rooftops without precautions, and take firm action against aerial firing.
A Cultural Festival at a Crossroads
Basant’s return has reopened an important conversation in Lahore. Can the city celebrate its cultural festivals while ensuring safety for everyone? For many, the answer lies in shared responsibility. Authorities must enforce laws strictly, but citizens also need to respect rules and think about the safety of others.
Basant is more than just kite flying, it is music, food, laughter, and community spirit. It is about families coming together and the city breathing as one. However, without discipline and care, the festival risks repeating the mistakes of the past.
