Punjab govt reschedules Basant 2027 in Lahore for second time, sets March dates
A large number of people selecting and purchasing the kites to celebrate the upcoming three-day kite flying festival (Basant) at local market in Lahore. PHOTO: APP
The Punjab government has rescheduled Basant 2027 in Lahore for a second time, with the provincial cabinet approving March 12, 13 and 14 as the new dates for the festival.
The latest decision reverses the schedule announced earlier by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, under which Basant was to be celebrated over 10 days from January 29 to February 7, with a break on February 5 to observe Kashmir Day.
According to sources, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Muhammad Ali Ijaz sent a summary proposing a change in the festival dates to the Punjab Home Department, which forwarded it to the provincial cabinet for approval. The cabinet has now approved the March schedule.
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Maryam had announced the January dates as an extended celebration intended to promote Punjab’s cultural heritage and Lahore’s traditional identity. She had directed the relevant departments to prepare in advance and strengthen public safety and facilitation arrangements.
The latest rescheduling means the festival will now take place over three days in March, replacing the previously announced 10-day programme.
Meanwhile, preparations for Basant 2027 have been underway under a regulatory framework governing kite flying, the manufacture and sale of kites, and the transportation and use of kite string.
The Lahore district administration has said kite flying will be permitted only on designated festival dates. Chemical-coated, metallic and sharp kite strings, commonly known as manjha, are prohibited under the announced restrictions, while only approved kite sizes and cotton string are permitted.
Registration of kite manufacturers began on September 5. Manufacturers must complete the prescribed registration and approval process, with licences issued only to those meeting the legal requirements. Assistant commissioners have been directed to verify applicants’ credentials and inspect their premises.
Read More: Basant comes back, but not as before
The district administration has also introduced a dedicated registration portal for Basant 2027, requiring manufacturers and other stakeholders to complete the applicable formalities. Authorities have warned of penalties for violations of regulations governing the manufacture, transportation and use of prohibited kite string.
The government had also been preparing cultural and beautification activities, including decorations along major roads, parks and green belts, as well as events showcasing Lahore’s heritage.
The Walled City was being considered for cultural activities featuring traditional Basant colours, food stalls offering local cuisine and live performances by musicians and artists.
The festival was revived in Lahore from February 6 to 8, 2026, after a prolonged ban, under restrictions intended to prevent accidents and protect public safety. Authorities have been directed to strengthen safety arrangements for the 2027 celebrations.