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‘Magical atmosphere’: Kite fever lights up Lahore as Basant boosts economy

‘Magical atmosphere’: Kite fever lights up Lahore as Basant boosts economy

Summary

Lahore, Pakistan, has revived the Basant festival, a three-day event celebrating the spring season with kite flying and other activities. Previously banned in 2007 due to safety concerns, the festival's return has brought economic benefits, generating significant revenue for local businesses. Sales from kites and related items are reported to be around one billion rupees, boosting the local economy.

Key Facts

  • Basant is a three-day spring festival traditionally celebrated with kite flying in Lahore and Punjab.
  • The festival was banned in 2007 due to safety issues involving accidents with kite strings.
  • Basant returned this year, starting on a Friday, after an 18-year ban.
  • Kite sellers report sales nearing one billion rupees (around $3.5 million USD) from kites and strings.
  • The festival has boosted the local economy, with significant spending on event-related activities.
  • Some rooftops for kite-flying festivals have been rented for as much as 1.5 to 2.5 million rupees for the three-day event.
  • Authorities spent months preparing for Basant's safe return, implementing a regulatory framework.
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