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Lahore's Kite Festival Soars Amid Tragedy and Economic Boost

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Lahore celebrated the lifting of an 18-year ban on its traditional Punjabi kite-flying festival, which began on February 6, 2026.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari initiated the event by flying the first kite.
A suicide bombing in Islamabad killed at least 31 people, leading to the cancellation of a concert.
Kite sales surged.
The festival's economic impact is estimated to exceed 3 billion rupees ($10 million).

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Story summary

Lahore celebrated the lifting of an 18-year ban on its traditional Punjabi kite-flying festival, which began on February 6, 2026.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari initiated the event by flying the first kite.
A suicide bombing in Islamabad killed at least 31 people, leading to the cancellation of a concert.
Kite sales surged.
The festival's economic impact is estimated to exceed 3 billion rupees ($10 million).