Although Basant will be celebrated only in Lahore, the Punjab government has officially notified two public holidays across the province for the festival.
As a result, people across Punjab will enjoy holidays despite the festival being Lahore-specific.
According to the official notification, Punjab will observe holidays on Friday and Saturday (February 6 and 7). Since Thursday is already a public holiday due to Kashmir Solidarity Day and Sunday is a regular weekly off, people across Punjab will enjoy four consecutive holidays — Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also announced the holidays on X. She urged people to use the extended break to relax, recharge and make the most of the festivities.
The provincial government has also allowed the manufacturing of kite-flying material in four districts to meet the growing demand in the provincial capital. Following the decision, approved manufacturers in Kasur, Faisalabad, Multan and Sheikhupura have been permitted to produce kite-flying material.
Basant Panchami:
Basant Panchami, a centuries-old festival of the subcontinent — including present-day Pakistan, India and Bangladesh — has traditionally been celebrated to welcome spring and pray for a good harvest. The Punjab government banned the festival in 2007. It made the decision following a series of injuries and deaths caused by sharp kite strings and celebratory gunfire.
The revival of Basant this year comes after the passage of the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance, 2025. The new law introduces strict safety and regulatory measures for kite flying, particularly in Lahore.
Under the revised framework, authorities have permitted only cotton kite strings and issued guidelines regarding the size of kites. Metallic, chemical-coated and other hazardous strings remain strictly banned. Violations may result in heavy fines and imprisonment.
Furthermore, the return of Basant has triggered a wave of excitement across Punjab, especially in Lahore. Kite shops and markets are witnessing a massive rush, while Lahorites have planned special gatherings and programmes to celebrate the festival.
