Will Punjab Hold Another Basant This Year? Govt Clears the Air

Published On: February 19, 2026

Will Punjab Hold Another Basant This Year? Govt Clears the Air

Speculation has been circulating about whether Punjab will host another Basant celebration this year. The provincial government has now given a clear answer.

The Government of Punjab has officially stated that no second Basant event will be held this year. The next official celebration has been scheduled for February 2027.

Minister Azma Bokhari’s Statement

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari addressed the issue in a video message shared through the government’s official social media channels.

She confirmed:

There is no proposal under consideration for another Basant before 2027
The next official festival will take place in February 2027
Preparations will aim to make it bigger and better

Her statement comes after reports of kite-flying activities in certain cities over recent days.

Why the Confusion Started

Following the revival of Basant earlier this month in Lahore, some residents believed another round of celebrations might be organized due to strong public enthusiasm.

Earlier, the Punjab government revived Basant in Lahore after an 18-year ban, allowing celebrations from February 6 to 8 under strict safety regulations.

The event passed without any reported deaths caused by dangerous kite strings — something officials described as a major administrative achievement.

Government’s Approach to Recent Kite-Flying

Minister Bokhari acknowledged that kite-flying incidents were reported in a few cities recently.

However, she stated that:

The government avoided harsh action
No injuries or losses were reported
Public enthusiasm for Basant remains strong

She added that the positive public response reflects deep cultural attachment to the festival.

Focus Now on 2027 Celebration

Officials have confirmed that future preparations will prioritize:

Strict safety enforcement
Better regulation of kite materials
Improved coordination with law enforcement
Wider public participation

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had earlier praised authorities for organizing a safe event this year, calling it a successful revival of a long-suspended cultural tradition.