The identity of any nation is defined by its culture, traditions, and civilisation. It is these cultural values and traditions that distinguish nations from one another across the world. History bears witness that societies which remain connected to their cultural roots always retain a distinct and prominent identity.
After a long hiatus, it appears that Punjab is finally reconnecting with its rich cultural heritage. A new phase of reviving Punjab’s traditions and cultural values has begun, largely due to the personal interest and visionary leadership of the Chief Executive of Punjab, who has taken bold and historic decisions to reintroduce cultural festivities. The most significant of these decisions is the revival of Basant celebrations after a gap of 25 years. Basant is a vibrant and colourful cultural festival; however, due to the irresponsible actions of a few individuals with criminal mindsets, it was unfortunately transformed into a deadly event. As a result, even genuine kite-flying enthusiasts were deprived of celebrating this beautiful festival.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, taking personal interest, decided to revive Basant after carefully considering public safety concerns. The Punjab Government worked on this initiative for several months and held multiple high-level meetings to finalise a safe and regulated framework for the celebrations. Subsequently, it was decided to celebrate Basant in Lahore for three days under strict regulations.
Reviving Basant was undoubtedly a difficult decision, but Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has already established her reputation for taking tough decisions and ensuring their effective implementation. To safeguard human lives and ensure disciplined celebrations, the Punjab Government introduced stringent conditions.
A new phase of reviving Punjab’s traditions and cultural values has begun, largely due to the personal interest and visionary leadership of the Chief Executive of Punjab, who has taken bold and historic decisions to reintroduce cultural festivities.
At the district level, applications were invited from kite manufacturers, string producers, traders, and kite-flying associations. A total of 931 applications were received from kite sellers, out of which 615 were approved and 41 rejected. From manufacturers, 583 applications were received; 405 were approved, and 35 rejected. Traders submitted 193 applications, with 139 approved and five rejected. Kite-flying associations submitted 15 applications, eight of which were approved, while three were rejected.
Following this process, registration was made mandatory for kite makers, string producers, and sellers. The registration period has been set from December 30, 2025, to February 8, 2026. The public will be allowed to purchase kite-flying equipment only from registered vendors between February 1 and February 8. Violations of these rules will result in strict penalties, including imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines of up to PKR 2 million.
The Punjab Government has also decided to take action against violations of the Kite Flying Act with the assistance of the Safe City Authority. Surveillance through Safe City drones will be conducted across various areas to monitor illegal activities.
In addition to enforcement measures, comprehensive public facilitation arrangements have been made. The Punjab Government will provide free public transport for three days, including 500 buses, 60,000 taxis, and 6,000 rickshaws. Moreover, free protective antennas will be installed on motorcycles to prevent string-related accidents.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken a historic step to revive Punjab’s cultural colours through this well-planned initiative. However, the responsibility now lies with the public to celebrate Basant responsibly, adhere strictly to the prescribed regulations, and ensure their own safety as well as that of others. The revival of Basant in Punjab also credits PML-N leader Mian Nawaz Sharif, whose personal interest played a key role in restoring this cultural tradition. Parents are strongly urged to keep children away from kite flying, as it is no longer a harmless pastime for minors.
The writer is the PRO of information minister Punjab.