Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz extended a warm invitation to people from across Pakistan and around the world to experience Lahore’s historic Basant celebrations, emphasizing the city’s legendary hospitality and cultural richness as the spring festival returned after 18 years.
The CM highlighted that “people from around the world are coming to Punjab. All the hotels and guest houses are booked”, demonstrating the massive appeal of the festival’s revival. She noted that “people from cities other than Lahore were also making appeals to organise Basant in their cities”, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for the cultural celebration.
Through social media platform X, CM Maryam invited residents from Lahore and across Punjab to participate in the festivities, with the main celebration planned at Liberty Chowk on February 7. She emphasized: “We cannot get a better occasion than this to portray Pakistan’s progressive image to the world”.
The government’s commitment to hospitality was evident in its comprehensive arrangements. Free public transport facilities were provided to facilitate citizens and promote safe, smooth and responsible travel across Lahore from February 6 to 8, 2026, making it easier for outsiders to navigate the city during celebrations.
CM Maryam described Basant as “a festivity that was exclusive to Punjab,” celebrating how passionately people used to celebrate it. She explained that the tradition dates back to 1250, marking the arrival of spring with yellow as its signature color, symbolizing “life returning to land”.
The inclusive spirit behind the revival demonstrates Lahore’s enduring reputation as a city that embraces visitors with open arms, turning cultural celebration into an opportunity for national unity and international recognition.
