Kites return to skies despite ban

RAWALPINDI:

Despite a ban imposed by the district administration, kite flying has once again taken to the skies across Rawalpindi, with the city's afternoons now dotted with a kaleidoscope of colours.

The Kite Association Rawalpindi has announced that 'Basant Night' will be celebrated on February 12, 2026, followed by Basant Day on Friday, February 13.

The association declared that the festival would proceed "as usual, whether permission is granted or not". It further stated that in the event of rain on Thursday or Friday, celebrations would be postponed by one week.

Across the city, kite vendors have quietly resumed business, selling kites and string in defiance of the official ban. Preparations for the festival are well underway, with enthusiasts placing advance home-delivery orders. Wholesale supplies of kites and string are expected to begin on December 25.

In the afternoons, students returning from schools and colleges have also joined in, flying kites despite the restrictions. Prices of kites and string have risen sharply this year: kites that previously cost Rs100 are now selling for Rs130, while those priced at Rs200 last year are being sold for Rs250. The price of string has also increased from Rs2,500 to Rs3,500 per spool. Nonetheless, sales remain brisk. Retailers are reported to have concealed their stocks in homes and warehouses, selling only to trusted or familiar customers to avoid police scrutiny.

Haji Muhammad Iqbal, Vice Chairman of the Kite Association, described Basant as a vibrant cultural festival that sustains livelihoods.