Famous but deadly kite flying festival returns after 19-year ban

BBC News - WorldEN 5 min read 100% complete February 8, 2026 at 01:01 AM

Famous but deadly kite flying festival returns after 19-year ban

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After a 19-year ban, the Basant kite flying festival has returned to Lahore, Pakistan, marking the start of spring. The festival, which dates back centuries, was prohibited in 2007 due to injuries and fatalities caused by sharp kite strings and related accidents. The revival of Basant has drawn crowds of locals, many of whom are experiencing the festival for the first time, as well as visitors from abroad. Participants gather on rooftops to fly kites, celebrating tradition and community. While kite flying is central to the festival, many emphasize the importance of bonding and cultural heritage.

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Key Player Opposition Context

United States 30% Miami 40% Kanwal Amin 60% Mina Sikander ×260% Abu Bakar Ahmad ×270% Caroline Davies ×270% Kashif Siddiqui ×270% Pakistan 80% Lahore ×390% Basant ×595%

Keywords

kite flying festival 100% basant 90% lahore 80% kite flying 70% tradition 60% ban 50% spring festival 50% cultural event 40%

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BBC News - World

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kite flying festival basant lahore kite flying tradition ban spring festival cultural event

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