LAHORE (Kashmir English): The Punjab government has banned the playing of 132 Punjabi songs ahead of Basant celebrations, warning of legal action against the violators.
According to an official notification issued by the Information and Culture Department, the listed songs may not be played at public or private gatherings, on rooftops, at commercial venues, or during any Basant-related activities.
Authorities said cases will be registered against individuals found violating the ban under relevant laws.
“The songs has been banned for unethical lyrics and for being enticing uncaring, and carry duel meaning, ” the notification said.
The banned list includes popular songs such as “Kundi na kharka Soniya sidha andar aa”, “Aaj khulde aang aang mera ve”, “Aisi kudiya shahar diya”, and “Nak da Koka”.
حکومتِ پنجاب نے ممنوع گانوں کا نوٹیفکیشن جاری کیا ہے لہذا بسنت کے موقع پر یہ 132 پنجابی گانے لگانے سے گریز کریں۔ خلاف ورزی کرنے والے پر مقدمہ درج ہو گا۔
نوٹیفکیشن اور گانوں کی فہرست جاری pic.twitter.com/zdrkiYYoy3— Shiraz Hassan (@ShirazHassan) January 26, 2026
The government said the move aims to preserve public decency and maintain law and order during Basant, which typically draws large crowds and heightened festivities.
Basant celebrations in Punjab have long remained sensitive due to safety concerns, including incidents linked to kite flying, prompting authorities to impose strict regulations each year.
Earlier, the Punjab government has announced standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Basant celebrations in Lahore scheduled from February 6 to 8, reiterating that public safety and order would remain the top priority for the festival’s return.
Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bukhari confirmed that celebrations would take place across the city under a regulated framework, according to a press statement.
