By Rai M. Azlan:
There was a time when caravans of fragrances used to pass by the streets of Lahore, but today it is a fuss created by direction less crowd. The remaining old cultural identities are dependent on the very few literary and cultural events. Bhaati Gate of old Lahore has always been famous as the centre of literature, knowledge, and art. One can easily experience the glimpse of the real cultural flavour of Lahore and old heritage right after crossing the gate. The twisting narrow streets, weaker structures, and doors with classic designs are the storytellers of the great past. Because of the literary activities of Bhaati gate Hakeem Ahmed Shuja declared it as “Chelsea of Lahore”.
This gate is situated at the north of the old city; Mori Gate is at the right side whereas Taxali Gate is on the left. There was a Tonga station and an empty ground, alongside the gate, where circus shows used to held. On the left of the gate the mosque and tomb of Ghulam Rasool is situated, He is famous as “Billion Wali Sarkaar” (Master of Cats).
In the books of history the account of this gate can be seen in the mid of 3rd century with reference to the Conqueror Raja Karpal Rao. Karpal built a castle with the name of “Bhatnair”. His offspring called Bhutti and Bhaati. In “Lahore ka Chelsea” (Chelsea of Lahore) Hakeem Ahmed Shuja writes;
The real name of the gate is Bhutti gate, and it is the point where Bhutti Warriors of Multan camped before the arrival of Mughals and with time, “Bhutti “spoiled into “Bhaati”.
