After an 18-year prohibition, kite flying has returned to the skies of Lahore as the city celebrates the Basant festival this weekend. Basant, a long-standing cultural event marking the arrival of spring, is one of Punjab’s major non-religious traditions. The festival’s revival has brought renewed enthusiasm among residents who have awaited this moment for nearly two decades.
Authorities lifted the ban on kite flying, allowing participants to once again engage in the popular activity that had been restricted due to safety concerns. However, it remains uncertain whether this reopening will continue in the long term or if restrictions might be reinstated.
**Why this matters**
The return of kite flying during Basant signals a potential shift in cultural policies and public celebrations in Punjab. It highlights the community’s desire to preserve traditional practices while balancing safety and regulatory concerns. The outcome may influence how cultural festivals are managed in the future across the region.
Source: NewsData