Lahore Celebrates Return of Basant Despite Soaring Costs
After a hiatus of over two decades, the vibrant festival of Basant has returned to Lahore, filling the city with color, music, and the sight of kites soaring through the sky. Celebrations officially began on February 6th and will continue through February 8th, but the fervor has already gripped the city, with markets buzzing and residents eagerly participating despite significantly increased prices for traditional festival items.
Mochi Gate has emerged as the epicenter of the Basant marketplace, drawing large crowds from across Lahore and beyond. Shops are reportedly packed, with queues stretching outside as people seek to purchase kites and string – known locally as dor – to partake in the festivities. The sheer volume of customers has even led to instances of shop windows breaking under the pressure, a testament to the excitement surrounding the festival’s return.
However, the joy of Basant is tempered by a sharp increase in costs. Inflation has dramatically impacted the price of essential items, causing concern among residents. According to buyers, a single taawa kite – a common type – is currently selling for between Rs300 and Rs400, while a one-and-a-half taawa kite ranges from Rs400 to Rs600. These prices represent a substantial increase, making the festival less accessible for some families.
The cost of kite string is proving to be a particularly significant burden, especially for young people. Two-piece pinna, a type of string, is being sold for between Rs8,000 and Rs10,000, while a 200-piece roll can cost as much as Rs12,000. Despite the expense, many young Lahoris remain determined to continue the tradition of kite flying.
“No matter how much inflation there is, Basant will be celebrated,” one resident reportedly said, echoing a sentiment shared by many who believe the enjoyment of the festival outweighs the financial considerations. This resilience highlights the cultural significance of Basant and the community’s desire to revive a cherished tradition.
Preparations for the festival are visible throughout the city, with colorful Basant-themed signboards adorning major roads. Organizers are also finalizing preparations for what they describe as the largest kite ever made, which is planned to be flown at Liberty Chowk. This ambitious undertaking symbolizes the scale of the celebrations and the enthusiasm surrounding Basant’s return.
Recognizing the potential for large crowds and the need for safety, authorities have implemented several measures. The provincial government has announced a free bus service across Lahore to facilitate public participation. Health facilities have been put on alert, with 13 hospitals preparing for potential emergencies. Authorities have also distributed safety rods and are utilizing QR codes on kites and strings to track sellers and ensure compliance with regulations.
The return of Basant follows a period of over 20 years during which the festival was largely suppressed due to safety concerns related to dangerous string. The current celebrations represent a renewed effort to balance tradition with modern safety measures, allowing residents to enjoy the festivities responsibly. The festival is expected to provide a significant boost to local businesses, as evidenced by the bustling markets and increased demand for festival-related goods.
Trains running to Lahore are reportedly operating at full capacity as people travel to the city to join the celebrations. This influx of visitors underscores the widespread appeal of Basant and its importance as a cultural event for Pakistanis.
