Kite and String Sales Cross Rs. 1 Billion as Lahore Gea. The business of kites and kite strings has witnessed a massive surge in Lahore as the city prepares for a possible revival of Basant. Fresh figures shared by representatives of the kite industry show that sales have crossed the Rs. 1 billion mark, highlighting the strong public interest and economic potential linked with the traditional festival.
According to the Kite Flying Association, the demand for kites, reels, and kite string accessories has remained exceptionally high across Lahore’s major markets. Despite higher prices compared to previous years, buyers continue to purchase in large numbers, indicating that Basant-related traditions still hold deep cultural and commercial value in the city.
Kite Business Sees Unprecedented Growth
Speaking to the media, the legal adviser of the Kite Flying Association, Malik Faizan Ahmed, revealed that sales of kite string reels alone crossed Rs. 1.22 billion on the fourth day of trading. This figure reflects only reel sales and does not fully include kites, accessories, or other related items, suggesting that total business volume may be even higher.
He explained that markets remained well-stocked throughout the fourth day, with traders ensuring continuous availability of kites and strings. The increase in prices did not discourage customers, as both professional kite flyers and casual enthusiasts actively participated in buying.
Over One Million Kite Reels Sold in One Day
One of the most striking revelations was the scale of daily sales. Malik Faizan Ahmed stated that more than one million kite reels were sold on the fourth day alone. In addition to reels, buyers purchased over 20,000 pannas, which are large spools of kite string typically used by experienced flyers.
Such high volumes indicate that kite flying is not limited to small gatherings. Instead, it has become a city-wide activity involving rooftops, neighborhoods, and entire marketplaces. For traders, this demand has translated into record-breaking sales figures within a very short period.
Updated Prices in Lahore Markets
Alongside sales figures, the association also shared current market prices for commonly used kite reels. A one-and-a-half tawa reel is selling for approximately Rs 700, while a one tawa reel costs around Rs 400. Smaller flyers often opt for a half tawa reel, priced near Rs 300.
For professional-grade kite string, prices are significantly higher. A two-piece panna is being sold between Rs 12,000 and Rs 15,000, depending on the quality and finishing of the string. Traders report that higher-quality pannas are selling quickly, especially among competitive kite flyers.
Daily Sales Show Rapid Increase
A breakdown of daily transactions further highlights the rapid growth in business activity. On the first day, total sales were recorded at Rs 160 million. This figure increased to Rs 180 million on the second day and Rs 200 million on the third day.
The most dramatic jump occurred on the fourth day, when buying and selling activity reached approximately Rs 680 million. This sharp rise suggests growing excitement around Basant and increased confidence among buyers and sellers as markets gained momentum.
Major Kite Markets Remain Fully Active
Kite-related trade continues to thrive in several historic and commercial areas of Lahore. Key markets include Androon Mochi Gate, Islam Pura, Sanda, Samanabad, Nonarian, and Ichhra. These localities have long been associated with kite manufacturing and sales, and they remain central hubs during the Basant season.
Shopkeepers in these areas report extended business hours, increased foot traffic, and bulk orders from resellers. Many traders also rely on seasonal workers, creating temporary employment opportunities tied directly to kite sales.
Economic Impact Beyond Kite Sellers
The economic benefits of this surge extend beyond kite shops alone. Allied businesses such as paper suppliers, bamboo stick vendors, dye manufacturers, and transporters also experience increased demand. Small-scale home-based units involved in kite making receive bulk orders, helping support household incomes.
Food stalls and street vendors near busy markets also benefit from higher customer turnout. As buyers spend long hours shopping, nearby eateries see a noticeable increase in sales, turning Basant-related trade into a wider economic boost for local communities.
Cultural Significance of Basant in Lahore
Basant has historically been one of Lahore’s most celebrated cultural events. The festival represents the arrival of spring and has long been associated with music, food, colorful attire, and kite flying from rooftops across the city. Although official celebrations have faced restrictions in past years, public enthusiasm has remained strong.
The current surge in kite sales shows that people continue to associate Basant with joy, family gatherings, and neighborhood bonding. For many residents, flying kites is not just a hobby but a tradition passed down through generations.
Safety and Responsible Practices
While the commercial revival is significant, industry representatives have emphasized the importance of safety and responsible practices. Malik Faizan Ahmed noted that traders are being urged to avoid dangerous materials and to follow legal guidelines related to kite string production and sales.
Public awareness campaigns are also expected to focus on safe kite flying methods, particularly in densely populated areas. Responsible practices are seen as essential for sustaining both cultural traditions and commercial activity in the long term.
Outlook for the Coming Days
With demand still rising, traders expect sales figures to grow further in the coming days. If the current trend continues, total Basant-related business could set new records for Lahore’s informal seasonal economy. Market observers believe that strong consumer response reflects both cultural attachment and pent-up demand.
The continued availability of products, stable supply chains, and active markets suggest that the kite industry is well-prepared to meet further demand. For many businesses, this period represents the most profitable time of the year.
Conclusion
Lahore’s kite and string market has crossed a major milestone, with sales exceeding Rs. 1 billion in just a few days. Strong demand, active markets, and deep cultural roots have driven this surge. If managed responsibly, the Basant revival could remain both economically rewarding and culturally meaningful for the city.
