The Government of Punjab has officially announced the revival of the traditional Basant festival in Lahore under the banner #PhirAaiBasant, marking the return of a historic cultural celebration through a regulated and government-led approach that places public safety, discipline, and civic responsibility at its core.
The decision reflects the provincial government’s commitment to preserving Punjab’s cultural heritage while addressing the safety concerns that previously led to the suspension of Basant celebrations. The initiative has been planned in coordination with the Department of Culture, civic authorities, and law enforcement agencies to ensure proper planning, oversight, and enforcement.
Officials clarified that #PhirAaiBasant is an official initiative of the Government of Punjab, aimed at allowing cultural expression while safeguarding life and public order. As part of the approved framework, Basant celebrations will be limited strictly to the Lahore district to enable effective monitoring and enforcement across the city.
To reduce safety risks, the government has approved a set of mandatory Standard Operating Procedures that will remain in force throughout the three-day celebration. These include the sale of kites only through government-registered stalls, the use of cotton string only, and a complete ban on unsafe or unauthorized materials. Motorcycle movement will remain restricted during the festival period to minimize the risk of accidents.
Public transport services will operate free of charge during Basant, supported by more than 5,000 registered rickshaws providing supervised free rides across Lahore to ensure safe and convenient travel for citizens. Authorities will also monitor drone activity and digital platforms to prevent violations and ensure compliance with safety rules.
The revival of Basant reflects the vision of Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, who brought this cherished cultural tradition back to life through a carefully planned and safety-focused framework, ensuring that public well-being remains the top priority.
Citywide preparations in Lahore are expected to reflect the festive spirit traditionally associated with Basant, while adherence to the approved guidelines will ensure that families and communities can participate responsibly. Officials emphasized that following safety regulations is a shared civic responsibility and will play an important role in shaping the future of regulated cultural celebrations in the province.
The revival of Basant under this controlled framework reflects renewed confidence in Lahore’s ability to celebrate its cultural heritage responsibly, while placing public well-being above all else.
