Pakistani Celebrities Criticised for Celebrating Basant

Pakistani celebrities have found themselves under intense public scrutiny after celebrating Basant while the country continues to mourn recent national tragedies.

After a gap of seventeen years, Basant has officially returned to Lahore, transforming the city into a canvas of colour, music, and fireworks.

With government-issued SOPs in place, Lahore slipped into full festive mode as rooftops, streets, and open grounds filled with kites.

People from across the country travelled to Lahore to witness the three-day extravaganza, while younger generations experienced Basant for the first time.

From Androon City to newly developed neighbourhoods, families gathered to light up the sky with vibrant kites and shimmering lights.

Like many citizens, celebrities also embraced the festival and were seen celebrating enthusiastically from their decorated rooftops.

Actor Imran Ashraf was spotted flying kites confidently, while Usama Khan and cricketer Hassan Ali enjoyed the occasion with loved ones.

Fiza Ali welcomed Basant, dressed in bright yellow, symbolising the traditional colours associated with the historic festival.

Although Lahore celebrated loudly, Karachi felt a visible sense of missing out as several prominent celebrities travelled to join the festivities.

Saboor Aly, Sidra Niazi, Ali Ansari, and Nadia Jamil shared moments from Lahore while flying kites with excitement.

Shoaib Malik and Sana Javed were also seen enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, adding further spotlight to celebrity participation.

However, the celebratory mood quickly turned controversial as public anger erupted over timing and perceived insensitivity.

The backlash stems from celebrations continuing despite a violent attack on an Imam Bargah in Islamabad on February 6, 2026.

The nation is simultaneously grieving victims of the Gul Plaza incident, the Teera Valley tragedy, and unrest in Balochistan.

Social media users accused celebrities of ignoring national grief and prioritising entertainment over empathy and responsibility.

Many users criticised stars for sharing celebration videos without acknowledging the pain felt by affected families nationwide.

One social media user wrote: “How easily they are manipulating Muslims, and they are falling prey to their conspiracies.”

Another commented bluntly: “They didn’t even care about what happened in Islamabad. Why can’t they stop Basant for the innocent martyrs?

“They don’t love Pakistan, for sure!”

One said: “Islamabad is bleeding. Stop sharing this sh*t. Focus on real problems.”

Another remark summed up frustration sharply, saying:

“It’s all good now because you all made a video out of it.”

The criticism extended beyond celebrities, with some users demanding an immediate ban on Basant celebrations altogether.

Supporters of the festival argued that Basant represents cultural revival and communal joy after nearly two decades of absence.

Critics, however, insisted public figures should lead by example and pause celebrations during moments of collective mourning.