Pakistan, Feb. 6 -- Lahore awoke on Friday to a burst of colour as Basant returned to the city after nearly two decades, with vibrant kites dotting the winter sky and residents eager to relive one of Punjab's most cherished cultural traditions. The long-awaited revival has drawn large crowds from across the country and abroad, filling hotels and guest houses to capacity and turning the city into a festive hub for three consecutive holidays.

Read More: DHA Lahore's residents allowed flying kites on Basant

Despite the celebratory mood, the Punjab government has declared Basant a "sensitive" event, citing the scale of participation, emotional attachment to the festival, and prevailing law and order concerns. Authorities have rolled out ext...