Basant 2026 Recap: What Happened and What Changes for 2027
After nearly two decades, Basant returned to Lahore from 6 to 8 February 2026 under the new Punjab kite flying law. It was a test run for a regulated festival, and its lessons are shaping Basant 2027.
خلاصہ
بسنت 2026 لاہور میں 6 سے 8 فروری تک منائی گئی۔ پتنگوں کی فروخت 1 سے 8 فروری تک کی اجازت تھی، 18 سال سے کم عمر بچوں پر پابندی تھی اور موٹر سائیکلوں پر حفاظتی تار لازمی تھی۔
The 2026 rules
- Kite flying allowed for three days, 6 to 8 February 2026, in Lahore only.
- Kite sales allowed from 1 to 8 February 2026, from registered sellers.
- Under-18s were not allowed to fly kites; parents faced fines.
- Motorcyclists had to fit safety rods or wires.
- Police used checkpoints, drones and CCTV to enforce the rules.
What went wrong
Despite the controls, deaths and injuries were reported during and after the festival, and police arrested kite flyers and dealers who broke the rules. This is why the government has asked departments to prepare earlier and strengthen safety for 2027.
What changes for 2027
| 2026 | 2027 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | 6 to 8 February | 29 January to 7 February |
| Length | 3 days | 10 days (9 flying days) |
| Pause day | None | 5 February (Kashmir Day) |
| Safety planning | Short lead time | Preparations started months ahead |