Basant 2026: Over 400,000 kites sold in one day in Lahore

LAHORE: Preparations for Basant 2026 are in full swing across Punjab, with kite and thread sales reaching a peak in the provincial capital, Lahore.

According to Malik Faizan, legal advisor to the Kite Flying Association, more than 400,000 kites were sold on the first day of the festival, and over 15,000 kite threads were sold today.

The prices for kite accessories range from Rs200 to Rs500 for single “puna” or “tava” threads, while a two-piece “puna” costs between Rs7,000 and Rs8,000, and a four-piece set is priced at Rs12,000 to Rs15,000.

Sales are ongoing in major markets including Mochi Gate, Islampura, Sandha, Samanabad, Achhra, and other areas.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said in a statement on social media platform X that Punjab will have a long weekend due to Kashmir Day on 5 February, the provincial holiday for Basant on 6 February, and the weekend following.

She expressed hope that the people of Punjab would use this time to relax, rejuvenate, and make the most of the holidays.

The people of Punjab are eagerly anticipating the Basant festival, and the provincial government has decorated Lahore accordingly, with all major roads illuminated for the celebrations.