Hello all,
Festivals are meant to give pleasure to people. They are not only a source of enjoyment but also create a positive image of a nation. They also promote the culture, food, and traditions of the natives. In modern times, festivals have also become a source of business promotion, whether it is on a town level or at an international exhibition.
I opened my eyes to Lahore city, where “Basant” was one of the most popular festivals of the spring season. “Basant” is a festival that has been celebrated in the subcontinent, especially Punjab, for a long time. It was celebrated to welcome the lively spring, which brings back life to nature. This time, when the blowing breeze blooms with the fragrance of flowers, there are colors spread everywhere on the ground. Young hearts would warm up and want to color the sky as well.
The festivity came with the tradition of inviting relatives and friends over and preparing delicious food all day long. In the ’90s, it changed into a day and night festival. Almost all the rooftops were flooded with lights and the sound of music. Bar-B-Q was prepared and served all night. After some time, women started to take part and made it more glamorous. Girls with the yellow and orange theme in their dresses could be seen singing, hooting, and encouraging their teams. This attracted multinational companies, and they took it to a higher level. I can just say that it was the most amusing and much-awaited festival not only for Lahoris but also for people from all over Pakistan and from abroad, who loved to come and enjoy it.
When I grew up, it was a game mostly for men and youngsters. They would prepare themselves a month before and collect the best threads and kites. There were masters and gurus having tips on materials and tactics for the game. People would even cut their fingers due to the threads, but who cares. It was not only a day, but it lasted for four to five months until it started raining in August.
Well, there are some pros and cons to everything. Unfortunately, some new money destroyed the actual festival and used prohibited and restricted threads that took the lives of many innocent people. This game, which once used to be the inauguration of the color and beauty of spring, became a bloody sport. The sportsman's spirit vanished, and fear of being defeated prevailed. Motorcyclists became the main victims and paid with their lives. People protested against this destruction, and finally, the Government banned this most amusing festival. In Pakistan, where people are already fighting against terrorism, another opportunity to celebrate had vanished.
According to me, some positive measures should be taken for the revival of “Basant”. Action should be taken against the culprits instead of banning the festival. First of all, some areas shall be allocated in different parts of the city for the celebration, like parks or vast fields outside the city. Secondly, proper codes of conduct and strict compliance from the public are necessary. This will obviously let our people enjoy this game safely and soundly. It is simple. Once, we were not even used to car seat belts, but the strictness and compliance of government machinery brought us to the stage where most of us are now accustomed to them.
I am also looking forward to your suggestions for a safer and more pleasurable “Basant”.
Best regards.
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