Preparations for Basant in Lahore have picked up significant pace as kite and string trading continues to expand rapidly. By the fifth day of business, the sale of kites and string had crossed Rs1.50 billion, showing not only increasing public excitement but also sharply rising prices as the city gears up for the long-awaited festival.

According to Advocate Malik Faizan Ahmed, legal adviser to the Kite Flying Association, Lahore’s markets witnessed massive activity on the fourth day alone. He said that more than one million kites were sold in a single day, while over 20,000 spools of string (panna) were purchased, keeping wholesale and retail markets crowded throughout the day.

Despite increasing prices, demand has remained strong. On the fourth day, a one-and-a-half tawa kite was selling for Rs700, a one tawa kite for Rs400, and less than one tawa kite for Rs300. Meanwhile, a two-piece spool of string was priced between Rs12,000 and Rs15,000, depending on quality and length.

Malik Faizan Ahmed stated that the trade value rose daily, reaching Rs160 million on the first day, Rs180 million on the second, and Rs200 million on the third. However, business surged dramatically to Rs680 million on the fourth day, pushing overall sales beyond Rs1.50 billion by day five.

He added that kite trading remained active in major areas such as Mochi Gate, Islampura, Sanda, Samanabad, Nonarian and Ichhra, along with surrounding localities. Even though prices have doubled in many cases, long queues were seen outside registered dealers as buyers rushed to secure kites and strings.

Shopkeepers have reported shortages of string and raw material, resulting in extreme overpricing. The situation became serious enough that the government allowed four districts; Sheikhupura, Multan, Faisalabad and Kasur to urgently supply kites and string to Lahore.

The Basant revival has also increased travel demand, with airfares rising due to a heavy influx of passengers. Some organisers have even struggled to arrange barbecue chefs. Lahore has been decorated with giant kites at Liberty Roundabout, while the Walled City remains the festival’s main centre, with approvals granted for around 73 major events. Gulberg will also serve as a key venue for government-organised celebrations.

However, high prices have made Basant difficult for the lower-middle class. String balls now cost Rs6,000 to Rs8,000, reaching as high as Rs22,000 to Rs24,000 per pina.

In the end, Basant has proven to be more than just a cultural festival, turning into a major economic activity worth billions of rupees. With strict enforcement and responsible participation, the city hopes to enjoy a safe and memorable festival.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)