Lahore has once again been swept up in Basant fever as the city prepares for the colorful kite-flying festival. The kite trade across Punjab, especially in Lahore, has seen a massive boost, with sales crossing Rs 150 million on the very first day. The sharp rise in business reflects strong public interest and renewed excitement around the traditional festival.
According to Malik Faizan, legal advisor to the Kite Flying Association (KFA), around 400,000 kites were sold on day one alone. Along with kites, demand for kite strings has also surged. Nearly 15,000 spools of string were sold ahead of the celebrations, showing how active the market has become in just a short time.
Traders say prices remain affordable for most buyers. Large kites are being sold for around Rs 500, medium-sized kites for Rs 300, and small kites for Rs 200. Shopkeepers across old Lahore, Ichhra, Mozang, and other busy markets reported long queues and steady sales throughout the day.
Basant has long been an important cultural event for Lahore, linked with spring, joy, and community gatherings. For many small traders, kite makers, and sellers, the festival also provides a major source of seasonal income. Workers involved in cutting paper, preparing designs, and winding strings benefit directly from the surge in demand.
Authorities have reminded citizens to follow safety rules during kite flying, especially by avoiding the harmful string and maintaining public safety. Despite these concerns, the strong opening day sales show that Basant remains close to the hearts of Lahoris.
With several days of celebrations ahead, traders expect the kite business to grow further, making this Basant season one of the most profitable in recent years.
