Lahore erupts with sounds of ‘bo-kata’ as Basant returns
LAHORE: The provincial capital did not sleep to welcome Basant on Thursday, as fireworks cracked the night sky past midnight, kites rose from rooftops and music drifted through the Walled City and beyond in the city long known as the home of ‘patang-baaz’ — kite flyers by instinct — marking the festival’s return after nearly two decades.
At Liberty Chowk, crowds gathered in pent-up anticipation, breaking into cheers as the city slipped into celebration.
With the three-day festival officially beginning Friday (February 6), Lahore slipped fully into festive mode, its skyline punctured by soaring kites and its streets washed in colour, anticipation and tightly managed order.
Major intersections, underpasses and public spaces glowed with buntings and oversized kite installations, while rooftops deep inside the old city bristled with preparation and promise.
“These colours scattered across Lahore’s skies are a reflection of our vitality and ancient culture,” Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz wrote on social media as the clock struck 12.
“Basant is not merely a festival; it is part of Punjab’s tradition. Wishing citizens a day filled with joy and celebration.”
Markets traditionally synonymous with Basant such as Mochi Gate, Delhi Gate, Shah Alam Market and Anarkali remained crowded late into the night, as buyers stocked up on kites, spools, fairy lights and festive trimmings.
Shopkeepers said the excitement built steadily as there was cautious curiosity on February 1and unrestrained enthusiasm followed once people realised the revival was real.
Meanwhile, Liberty Chowk emerged as the symbolic centre of festivities, transformed into a civic celebration space adorned with giant kites and lights. Families, young couples and groups of friends gathered to participate.
Enthusiasts say the fundamental shift is that this is the first Basant not whispered or hidden but sanctioned, visible and confidently public.
“Joy has returned as permission. The people want to believe in good and despite rising prices, Lahoris did not hesitate to participate,” a Johar Town citizen said. “At least, there’s entertainment now.”
Similarly, Basant is not confined to rooftops alone, but has returned to public life.
Earlier, the sense of openness deepened on Thursday when Maryam Nawaz Sharif paid a surprise visit to Liberty Chowk and later Mochi Gate, stepping into the crowd and engaging directly with citizens. She spoke with residents, posed for selfies and instructed her security personnel to step aside so she could move freely among the people.
Children, dressed in festive yellow, drew particular attention. The chief minister was seen shaking hands with a young girl, exchanging greetings with others, and blessing an infant carried by a citizen.
Residents praised her performance, with some remarking on the political significance of Basant’s return and others expressing hope that similar scenes would soon unfold in other cities. Staff Report
