For many Lahoris, Basant is not just a festival but a deeply rooted cultural memory. As February begins, that familiar excitement has returned to the old city, where kite shops at Mochi Gate have officially reopened, triggering heavy demand from buyers across Lahore and beyond. With strict timelines and legal conditions in place, people are rushing to place orders before the window closes.
This article explains what is officially allowed, how online ordering works, current prices, and the rules buyers must follow, using only confirmed and practical information.
What Is the Latest Update from Mochi Gate
Kite shops in Mochi Gate, Lahore, officially started selling Basant-related equipment on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This reopening is temporary and regulated, allowing sales only until February 8, 2026. After this date, manufacturing and sales will again be banned.
The government has allowed this limited window to manage Basant-related activity under strict safety and legal controls rather than unregulated street selling.
Why Mochi Gate Matters for Basant Shopping
Mochi Gate has long been the central hub for kite-making and sales in Lahore. Even with online systems now in place, most registered sellers and manufacturers are still based in this historic market.
Since reopening:
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Demand has been extremely high
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Crowds began gathering from early hours
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Several shops are selling out quickly and closing early once stock finishes
Authorities have instructed shopkeepers to operate only during approved daytime hours, discouraging late-night or unofficial sales.
Current Kite and String Prices in February 2026
Due to limited supply, legal restrictions, and high demand, prices have increased compared to previous years.
Reported market prices include:
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Kites:
Rs. 250 to Rs. 500 per kite, depending on size, color, and craftsmanship -
String (Pinna / Spool):
Around Rs. 4,000 for a standard spool
Larger or premium spools reaching up to Rs. 6,000
Buyers should expect price variation based on availability and seller registration status.
How Online Ordering Works Now
To control the market and ensure safety, the Punjab government has made online registration mandatory for manufacturers and sellers.
Registered Sales Only
All legal kite and string sales must come from registered outlets. Sellers are required to complete registration through official digital systems before offering products.
QR Code Verification
Every approved kite and string spool sold legally now carries a QR code. This code confirms:
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The seller is registered
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The product meets safety standards
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The sale is legally permitted
Buying items without QR codes may expose buyers to legal trouble.
Delivery and Online Orders
Some shops are offering online or WhatsApp-based ordering, but buyers are strongly advised to confirm that the seller is officially registered. Private delivery does not make a sale legal unless the seller is approved.
Important Legal Rules Buyers Must Follow
The reopening of Mochi Gate shops does not mean unrestricted buying. Strict rules remain in force, and violations can lead to penalties.
Approved Strings Only
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Only cotton strings made of up to nine threads are allowed
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Metallic, nylon, plastic, or chemical-coated (glass) string is strictly banned
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Possession or use of banned string is treated as a criminal offence
Restrictions on Kite Designs
Kites must follow design rules:
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Allowed: plain or multi-colored designs
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Banned:
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Political symbols
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Religious text or holy places
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National emblems or sensitive imagery
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These restrictions are enforced under Section 144.
Safety Measures for Motorcyclists
To prevent injuries:
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Motorcyclists are required to install iron safety rods on bikes
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This measure aims to reduce accidents caused by flying strings
Authorities have emphasized that safety compliance is not optional.
What Buyers Should Do Before Ordering
Given the short window and strict enforcement, buyers should act carefully:
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Purchase only from registered Mochi Gate sellers
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Check for QR codes on all items
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Avoid hoarding or illegal storage
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Follow usage and safety guidelines strictly
Buying legally protects both the buyer and the seller.
Common Confusion Cleared
Many people are unclear about what is allowed. Here is clarity:
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The reopening is temporary, not permanent
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Online ordering does not bypass legal rules
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Higher prices are due to limited legal supply
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Enforcement teams will remain active even after purchases
Assuming “everyone is selling” can lead to serious legal consequences.
What Happens After February 8, 2026
Once the approved period ends:
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Manufacturing will stop
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Sales will be banned again
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Possession of unapproved stock may be questioned
This deadline is firm, and no extension has been officially announced.
Conclusion
The reopening of Mochi Gate kite shops has brought Basant excitement back to Lahore, but under strict control, limited time, and clear legal boundaries. With sales allowed only until February 8, 2026, buyers are moving fast—but must stay careful.
Ordering online is possible, but only through registered sellers and approved products. For those planning to participate, following the rules is not just about legality—it is about safety, responsibility, and preserving a cultural tradition without harm.
