We have always heard that the vibrant colours of Punjab and its rich cultural heritage are the true identity of the province across the world. This time, after a gap of 25 years, Basant provided the younger generation with the opportunity to witness these colours and traditions with their own eyes.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz decided to revive Basant celebrations in Lahore after 25 years. This was a very difficult decision because many concerns and reservations were raised regarding the festival. However, the CM honoured her commitment and successfully implemented her decision. Before the commencement of Basant, security arrangements of the highest standard were put in place. Since the younger generation was going to celebrate Basant for the first time in their lives, safety measures were also ensured at the same high level.
For the citizens’ safety, the Punjab government fixed nearly 1.3 million safety rods on motorcycles. Public transport remained completely free for three days, including 500 electric buses, rickshaws, and taxis, and approximately five million people benefited from free travel.
During the Basant days, more than one million vehicles entered Lahore. If the number of passengers arriving from abroad and those coming from other cities of Pakistan are counted, it is estimated that at least 10 million people came here to celebrate Basant. While Pakistanis are passionate about Basant, foreign nationals also travelled here to participate in the celebrations. Foreign ambassadors and representatives of international media especially came to cover the event and were also seen enjoying kite flying themselves.
Besides, people across Pakistan were seen praising Maryam Nawaz and admiring the good fortune of Lahoris. The Basant celebrations helped Lahore to establish a new identity around the world. Visitors from Karachi and other cities stated that they had always heard Lahore was a city of lively and warm-hearted people, but during this Basant they witnessed it with their own eyes.
Basant provided healthy entertainment not only to the people of Lahore but to citizens throughout Pakistan. Perhaps for the first time, international media positively portrayed Pakistan’s true image to the world. This Basant not only provided recreation to locals but also presented a positive and peaceful face of Pakistan globally. The world received the message that the people of Pakistan are peace-loving and deeply connected to their culture.
Maryam Nawaz successfully showcased Pakistan as a joyful nation on the international stage. The idea of reviving Basant belonged to Nawaz Sharif, but it was Maryam Nawaz who practically implemented it.
Under the auspices of the Punjab Information and Culture Department, three-day Basant festivities were organised at Delhi Gate Lahore, which were attended by foreign diplomats and parliamentarians. Actors from the showbiz industry, especially from Karachi and other cities, participated and added great charm to the event, while a large number of citizens also attended throughout the three days. People of all ages flew kites from every rooftop, proving that they are peaceful and joyful people. The public rejected the politics of hatred and unrest and chose happiness and togetherness. Due to this single decision, Maryam Nawaz received appreciation across the country. The way people celebrated Basant showed that they are tired of violence and negativity and desire healthy recreation and quality time with their families, which the CM provided.
The author is Punjab Minister for Information and Culture.
