Basant 2026 is fast approaching, and the city of Lahore is once again brimming with excitement, colors, and anticipation. Streets, especially around Mochi Gate and other shops in the Walled City, have become hotspots for kite enthusiasts. From the early hours, eager crowds gather in hopes of buying kites and threads, only to find many shops shuttered and shelves empty.
The festive spirit of kite flying is palpable, but the soaring prices have turned what was once a joyful tradition into a costly affair. Single kites, sold by the tawa, are fetching record rates, while kite strings—locally known as “dorr”—have reached thousands of rupees. This sudden surge has left many residents worried about how high prices could climb before Basant 2026 officially begins.
The demand quickly overwhelmed shopkeepers, forcing many to close their shops within an hour as stock ran out. The limited supply and massive crowds led to chaos, leaving numerous buyers empty-handed. Citizens have strongly criticized the unprecedented price hikes, calling them excessive compared to previous years. Reports indicate that a single tawa of kites is being sold between Rs 250–300, while one-and-a-half tawa costs Rs 450–500. Meanwhile, premium kite strings are priced between Rs 4,000–5,000 per pinna, and 1.5 pinna can reach an astonishing Rs 7,500, putting the traditional celebration out of reach for many.
| Kites | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Small Kites (Tawa) | Rs 250 – 300 |
| One-and-a-half Tawa Kites | Rs 300 – 400 |
Despite shop closures and high costs, the excitement for Basant 2026 shows no signs of fading. Buyers continue to scour Mochi Gate and nearby areas in search of kites and dorr, determined to partake in Lahore’s most anticipated festival. The early rush, extreme price spikes, and sudden shortages have also raised questions about market regulation, leaving residents anxious about how expensive kite flying may become as Basant 2026 nears.
