Basant festival draws crowds to Khanpur Dam

KHANPUR: A two-day Basant Festival was held at a scenic tourist spot near the historic Jamia Masjid Rajgan on the banks of Khanpur Dam, where residents and visitors gathered for kite flying and other recreational activities.

The event turned the area into a busy leisure destination as the sky filled with colourful kites flown by locals, tourists and participants from different parts of Pakistan as well as foreign visitors. Cheers from kite flyers mixed with music, while many attendees danced, raised slogans and enjoyed food during the festival.

Families also spent the weekend by the water, arranging barbeques and eating mutton karahi as part of picnic activities at the site. The festival remained popular with young people, families and children, according to the organisers and participants.

Tourism and recreation activities

In addition to kite flying, activities such as boating, jet skiing and scenic photography were arranged for tourists. The organisers said the purpose of the fair was not only to provide healthy entertainment for the public but also to promote tourism in the area.

The festival was organised by a private company with the cooperation of the local administration to celebrate the spirit of Basant, a traditional spring festival in the subcontinent associated with kite flying and other festivities.

Strict security arrangements were put in place for the event, while rescue teams were kept nearby to respond in case of emergencies.

Visitors praise arrangements

Foreign tourists taking part in the fair appreciated Pakistan’s culture and hospitality and said that Basant is a beautiful cultural festival that is a symbol of happiness and colours.

Families attending the event praised the district administration for giving citizens an opportunity to take part in healthy activities in a safe and peaceful environment. They said that if the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government starts organising the Basant Mela officially, it would help attract more visitors.

The event’s attractive setting drew both local and foreign tourists and highlighted the potential of well-organised events for the local economy. Local residents also said such activities add to the appeal of the area and support business activity.

Khanpur Dam is already known as a popular destination for recreational activities throughout the year. The event also underscored the site’s potential to develop further as a tourism hub if improved facilities and planning are put in place.