The eagerly-awaited Basant festival, which has returned after 25 years to Lahore city, is filling the city with colour, music and celebration.
To enjoy drum beats and take part in cultural festivities, citizens flocked to rooftops to fly kites across the city.
On the first day of the three-day festival, the skies were dotted with vibrant kites as families and friends gathered.
The historic kite market at Mochi Gate saw overwhelming crowds, with prices of kites and strings soaring due to high demand.
Small fancy kites were being sold for Rs500 to Rs700, while larger kites were also available at higher rates. Some buyers were seen making purchases worth Rs50,000 to Rs100,000 as demand surged ahead of the celebrations.
As per the officials, permission has been granted to 2,246 traders to sell kites and strings, while 2,504 applications were received. Registration through an online portal has been made mandatory, and kites and strings will only be available at officially registered sales points until February 8. Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against violators.
Bhangras and traditional music filled the streets, while Basant-themed sweets and pastries were prepared for family feasts.
Hotels reported full bookings, and children and young adults dressed in yellow and other colourful outfits, adding to the festive spirit.
On this special occasion, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz urged citizens to follow safety SOPs and celebrate the festival responsibly.
She thanked former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for reviving this beloved tradition, saying the festival has brought happiness and peace back to Lahore and Punjab.
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