Gates of Lahore

The city of Lahore has seen many remarkable ages and dynasties, and in the narrow lanes of the old city you can still find traces of the city’s glorious past. It is not difficult to envision the majesty of the long gone era by looking at the many imposing structures that are still standing tall while some have crumbled to dust.

Among such structures worth mentioning are the gates of Lahore. For safety purposes, the Old City of Lahore was enclosed by a 9 meter high brick wall and had a rampart running around it, for that reason it’s also known as Walled city. The 13 gates made of wood and iron, gave access to the city and were closed in the evening.

These gates were constructed during Emperor Akbar’s rein (1584 -1598). During Ranjit Singh’s (1799 to 1849) times, the fast falling walls were rebuilt in 1812. All of these gates continued to exist until the 19th century. Some were rebuilt in simple structures, except for Delhi Gate and Lahori Gate. Only 6 of these ancient gates are present these days that include Roshnae, Delhi, Shairanwala, Bhati, Kashmiri and Lahori.

1. Delhi Gate

The Delhi gate is situated on eastern side of the Lahore city. It was built in mughal era. Akbar the great ordered its construction. The direction of this gate is towards Delhi, so this gate is named, Delhi gate. This gate was badly damaged during last days of mughal rule due to fights. In Sikh period this gate was built again. This time it was built in dual gates formation. But in very short duration it was again damaged due to fights among Sikhs for succession. When British came in power and the process of development started. This gate was built with new design. The construction was outsourced to ‘Mian Sultan’ the Tehkaydar. It was constructed double story, wide and modern. The offices of municipal officers and police were on second story. This last construction of British era stands till day. The influence of local architecture is prominent with mixture of western design. The famous Shahi Hamam is inside Delhi gate. It is one of the most famous gates of Lahore.

Inside the gate, there are a number of historical buildings, old streets and markets. Wazir Khan Mosque, another majestic inheritance from Mughal Empire, exists within the gate. The tomb of Tomb of Syed Muhammad Ishaq also exists in the courtyard of the mosque.

Wazir Khan Mosque

Upside the gate, there is an archaeological styled building that is currently being used as a government school for girls. The gate also contains a number of old havelies to fetch the tourists in to a state of surprise. A big cloth market is located around Delhi gate. The gate also includes a holy place for Hindus “Shawala Baba Bhakar Guru”. Across the gate, there is Landa Bazar, where recycled attires are sold at amazingly economical rates. Interestingly, sometimes the stuff of the attires is quite better than that of new ones.

2. Roshnai Gate

This gate was originally a gate of royal fort. Roshnai gate lies between Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque. On the south side of Hazuri Bagh. In those days Hazuri bagh was part of fort. This garden was built by Maharajah Ranjit Singh in 1813 to celebrate the capture of the famous Koh-i-Noor Diamond from Shah Shujah of Afghanistan.The name Roshnai gate was due to lighting, which was done every night by the order of Emperor.

In fact this gate was a link between walled city and fort. It was double gate. Now day’s only one side is available and this side is facing city. The Roshnai Gate is the gate that still is in fine condition and lives through its original looks.

3. Akbari Gate

The Akbari gate is situated towards south west of Delhi gate and it is facing Rehman Galian area. It was named after Jalal-Ud-Din Muhammad Akbar (1542-1605). Akbar the great ordered to build this gate for access of traffic to grain market. This grain market was constructed on special orders of the Emperor. He wants this market successful for betterment of people. With the passage of time the gate got dilapidated.

During the reign of English though it was renovated, nevertheless currently once again it has lost its magnificence. Close to this gate, the royal leader also established a market, which is known as “Akbari Mandi”. It is the biggest wholesale and retail market of Lahore, in which food grains of all kinds are traded. It’s a widespread market with hundreds of wholesale and retail shops.

4. Zakki/Yakki Gate

The Zakki gate is named after a Sufi elder, named ‘Peer Zaki’. He was appointed caretaker of this gate by mughal rulers. He was kind hearted person and true solider by profession. He performed his duties with great loyalty. Due to his good behavior, he respected by everyone. When he became old, in those days, the city came under siege. Heavily armed groups of brutal plunderers were attacking gates to get inside city for looting. Peer Zaki bravely defended his gate. But the gate was old and number of defenders was short. The plunderers soon make entrance through gate. Peer Zaki stood in center of gate and fought bravely. In this fight he was beheaded but instead of falling down his body keeps fighting without head. 

Sometime passed, the head less body of Peer Zaki keep on fighting up till further few hundred yards inside the gate. Now there are two graves one outside the gate, where head is buried and one grave is inside the gate where body is buried. The people use to visit both graves and offer prayers. This is due to soft assent of Lahoris, they converted ‘Z’ to ‘Y’. There is school for blinds situated nearby the gate. Besides, there are a number of havelis located in and around the gate. A number of temples are also located in and around Yakki Gate.

5. Bhati Gate

Bhati Gate entrance is located on the Western wall of the Old City. It is one of the two oldest entry points into the Walled City which controlled the only major north-south thoroughfare during Ghaznavid period. When the Emperor Akbar expanded the city eastward and divided it into nine districts or Guzars, Bhati Gate and its bazar marked the boundary between Guzar Mubarak Khan (east) and Guzar Talwarra (west). It was called Bhati gate because it opens in the direction of Sandal Bar named after Rai Sandal Khan a Bhatti Rajput who lived there in ancient times.

Bhati Gate

The area inside the gate is well known throughout the city for its food. Just outside of Bhati Gate is Data Durbar, the mausoleum of the Sufi saint Ali Hajweri. Every Thursday evening musicians used to gather here to perform Qawwali music, but these days qawalies have been replaced with Naats and religious sermons.

6. Khizir /Sheranwala Gate

Hazrat Khwaja Khizr Elias, a great saint of the times, was known as “Amer-ul-Bahar”. He had special association with running waters and was the discoverer of “water of immortality”. The gate was named “Khiziri” gate after his name. It is one of the three gates located in the north side of the city. In old times river Ravi used to flow by the walled city Lahore and sea-transportation used to take place near to this gate.

When Maharaja Ranjit Singh got hold of the city, he kept two domesticated lions in a cage for the protection purposes on the gate. In that context the gate was named as “Sheranwala gate”. The Italian traveler Niccola Mannuchi who visited Lahore in 1667 named it Qadri Gate, however historians has not come across the reason behind it yet.

Khizir Gate

Life inside the gate truly describes traditional old Lahori way of living. Narrow bazaar brimming with a variety of necessities of daily life remains open till late at night. There is also a famous Government School for Deaf and Dumb Khizri Mohala.

The current condition of the gate and its structure is in extremely pathetic. The lime plaster and the paint have been depreciated completely. A number of cracks, billboards and advertisements on the walls are cursing the majesty of the Mughal Empire.

7. Lohari Gate

The oldest gate of the walled city, Lahori gate is located in south and wrongly pronounced as “Lohari” gate. The gate was named after the city Lahore. Actually during Hindu Raj, “Ichra” was supposed to be the actual Lahore. As the gate faced towards it, consequently it was named as “Lahori Dawaza”. However, another school of thought acclaims that “Lohari” comes from Urdu word “Loha” which means “Iron”.

According to this school of thought, a number of “Lohars” had their shops just outside the gate, for that reason the gate is known as Lohari gate. Nevertheless, the former myth is highly acknowledged than the later one.

Lahori Gate

History asserts that during the time of Mahmood Ghaznavi when Malik Ayaz reconstructed the town, the accommodation of the city was first populated about this gate. When Maharaja Ranjit Singh surrounded Lahore with a large force, it was Muhkim Din Chaudary, who was in charge of Lahori Gate in those times. He connived with Raja and opened it secretly for him and in this way Raja took possession of the city.

Currently inside the gate there are innumerable typical Lahori spicy-cum-heavy food spots. Haji Sahib Nahari walay, Sheikh Chathara and Sweets, Mehar Bashir Halwae and Hafiz Channay are some of the most famous food spots of the area. Groups and groups of people come here to relish the scrumptious food and witness the glory of historical buildings of Mughal era.

Just outside the gate, is located a beautiful mosque named as Muslim Masjid. Many flower shops are sited in the shelter of the mosque, which sell flowers and garlands of every kind. Behind the gate once there stood a brick fort called Kacha Kot. Biggest optical market of Lahore is also located here.

One of the biggest and dazzling bazaars of Lahore, Anarkali, is situated just across the Lahori gate. The bazaar is extremely popular among middle class group for a variety of stitched and un-stitched clothes and shoes. A large number of tourists are also seen visiting the area. The tomb of Qutb-Ud-Din Aibak, first Muslim ruler of Subcontinent, is also adjacent to Anarkali Bazaar.

8. Kashmiri Gate

Kashmiri gate is so named because of its opening towards valley Kashmir. Inside the gate there is a shopping area called “Kashmiri Bazaar”. It is a widespread bazaar with narrow markets and alleyways in every corner. A roadway to Wazir Khan Mosque is also accessed from the bazaar. A big market of children shoes is also situated in this gate. The gate also leads to a roadway towards Asia’s number one cloth market, Azam Cloth market. It contains more than about 16000 shops of clothes.

Kashmiri gate

A girl’s college is also located in an old yet majestic haveli of a shah. Furthermore, the current condition of the historic gate is just pathetic. Advertisements of different shops and banners of some political parties are heavily costing the splendor of the Mughal art.

9. Mori Gate

In between Lahori and Bhati, there used to be the smallest gateway called, Mori Darwaza. Though it wasn't a particular gate as the other twelve ones but even then it’s included among the great series constructed during the Mughal Empire. In Urdu, word “Mori” is referred to a “small hole”. Since it was a small gateway for that reason it is named, “Mori Gate”. In the evening when all of the twelve gates were closed for security purposes then this particular opening gave access to the walled city. Moreover, it was also used as outlet for the refuse and the sweepings of the city.

Inside the gate an alley leads to a square named Chowk Jhanda. Behind the gate once stood a narrow street which leads to an open area. This open area was once a large garden and the haveli of Nau Nihal Singh. Today, though there is no remnant of that garden but the haveli lives to tell the tale along with some of its ornamentation. Just across the gate there also exists the biggest market for knowledge seekers, Urdu Bazaar, where a number of book lovers daily visit in order to quench their thirst of knowledge.

10. Masti Gate

Masti gate was renovated by the orders of Emperor Akbar the great. After renovation emperor appointed on of special servants, named Masti Khan Baloch. He was brave and loyal to his master. He served many years as caretaker and defender of this gate. When he was an elderly person at that time Emperor rewarded him. Masti Baloch appointed as caretaker of this gate for life time and gate was named after his name, the ‘Masti Gate’. In British period this gate was dismantled due its bad condition and a small gate was installed at this place.

11. Shah Alam Gate

Shah Alam was a mughal Emperor. He was son of famous mughal emperor Aurangzeb Alamgir. When Shahalam visited Lahore, one of his advisers told him that he should construct some land mark building like his forefathers. So Emperor Shahalam ordered his building department to construct a majestic gate between Mochi and Lohari gates.

The Shah alam Gate was youngest and modern then other gates. Mostly it was used by elite class and special troops to move in and out. Outside this gate were very beautiful gardens owned by prominent elites. Inside this gate was trading houses and storage of leading businessmen. Beside burned down to ashes twice in last one hundred and fifty years. The legend to be a business area lives till now and major business markets are situated inside Shahalam gate area. This gate stood strong during last mughal and Sikh period but fire made it weak. After the riots of mid fifty, the burned areas inside Shahalam gate were cleared and new buildings were constructed for business point of view.

12. Texali Gate

To access the walled city through heavily fortified brick wall, one of the two gates built in the west, is called “Texali Gate”. The gate is so called because of a Taxal that used to exist quite near to the gate. However, both Mint and the gate are no more today.

Currently, the gate is frequently visited by food lover Lahories as the bazaar around it has to serve best quality typical Lahori breakfast that includes Pa’ay of Fazal Din colloquially known as “Phajja” and Halwa Puri of Taj Mehal and Shahbudin Halwai. The bazaar is also renowned for the musical instruments that are made and sold here. Besides, a large number of people from all over the city specially visit Sheikuprian Bazaar to buy best quality Khussa, Peshawari and Kohla-Puri Chappal.

13. Mochi Gate

Located in south, Mochi gate is yet another significant mark of Mughal Empire. The name of the gate in fact is marred form of “Moti” or “Morchi”. Pandit Moti Ram, a guard in the reign of Akbar used to watch over the gate. He remained associated with his job till he breathed his last. For that reason it was named after him. Nevertheless, some historians assert that “Mochi” is the marred form of Urdu word “Morchi” which means “Trench Soldier”. It is further supported by the fact that the different streets which still bear their old names are the Mohalla Teer-garan , Mohalla Kaman-garan.

On the immediate right of the gate, there exists Mochi Bagh which is one of the major places for political get together in Lahore. Many political, processions and gatherings take place here. Dried fruit markets, kites shops and that of fireworks are the splendor of this historical gate. Fazal Sweet House is the famous sweet shop of the area. The gate is also a prominent roadway for some reputed Havelis of the Mughal Empire. They include Mubarak Haveli, Nisar Haveli and Laal Haveli. A number of Imam Bargahs are also located in different havelis.

Reference:

• http://www.apnaorg.com/articles/dawn-86/
• http://www.thelahorecity.com/
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati_Gate

You can discover more historical and interesting places of Lahore city on Locally Lahore. Locally Lahore is a must have App, which allows you to explore Lahore and it covers up all point of interest. It gives you information about latest events and happenings in Lahore. 

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Posted by Anonymousa at Friday, April 17, 2015 1 comments

Locally Lahore Photo Walk 2015

Locally Lahore Team organized its 1st photo walk of spring season on Sunday 8th March, 2015 to promote Lahore's tourism and historical importance. The Walk started from Delhi Gate and ended at Gawalmandi Food Street. There were almost 25 participants in this walk. This event is only meant for photographers, its not general public and touring event. The participants got fresh photographs of Walled City's Historical, Domestic & Commercial Architecture, Streets Life of Walled City Lahore, Commercial Aspects and many more Faces of Lahore.

This Photo Walk was aimed at focusing the true face of Lahore where ordinary people find pleasure in everyday life moments. We experienced marvelous old architecture of domestic & commercial urbanized areas of walled city with detailed historical information from one of our leading team member Adil Lahorei. The walk lead by one of the best photographer of Lahore Mr. Yasir Nisar.

Photo walk main Route was Inside Delhi Gate to Gawalmandi Food Street. Due to rainy weather the walk started late. We reached at Delhi in morning and started walk passing through phool wali gali to Wazir Khan mosque. We visited mosque and Adil told some of the history of the beautiful mosque. We stayed at Mosque for 15 to 20 minutes. An ad film shooting was recording there. Then from mosque we moved to Mochi Gate passing through the small streets. There we visited Dena Nath Haveli and Mubarak Haveli. Also i bought desi food from there. Then on reaching Mochi Gate, we visited Nisar Haveli, Chohta Mufti Bakir, Chowk Nawab Sab, Mohala Teera Giraa, Mohala Laaht Maraa. Finally passing through these places we moved to Gawalmandi food street where was the arrangement of breakfast. From chamberlain road we reached at food street, Adil also took us to the Baking Virsa shop there.

Delhi Gate

The Dehli Gate was once the main and only road that led from Lahore to Dehli. The gate was built during the Mughal era. Although the gate suffered greatly in the 1947 riots, it has since been renovated and today is in its former glory.

The area around Delhi Gate was once an affluent neighborhood, where aristocrats, courtiers and wealthy merchants lived in grand havelis. Unfortunately, the genteel residents are long gone and their splendid havelis are crumbling. Narrow streets have become congested as residential and commercial areas have melded into one. Yet, some of the families living there have been doing so for generations.

Delhi Gate

Delhi Gate houses some of Lahore’s biggest markets and is always abuzz with activity. Azam Cloth Market, which is believed to be one of Asia’s largest, comprises approximately 25,000 shops selling fabric, draperies, shoes, as well as embroidery stalls. Nearby is Namad Garan, an old-fashioned spice bazaar. If you are looking for fine dining, Delhi Gate is not the place to be. But plenty of mouth-watering desi snacks are available including kachoris, pakoras, pathooray and naan channay.

Delhi Gate Street

Wazir Khan Mosque

Near the Gate stands the Masjid Wazir Khan, a famous landmark. Built by Nawab Wazir Khan, Governor of Lahore (1634-1635), it is a fine example of Mughal architecture. The mosaic tiles that adorn the walls are embellished with Arabic calligraphy. The Mosque is frequented by the faithful five times a day, every day.

It has 4 minarets but all are not built same time. The three of it are built together and one is built later. The forth minaret is not straight. There is a big Pool in the center of the mosque. Also there is a Tomb of Syed Muhammad Ishaq, in the mosque. There are many hujras (a separate room within the mosque for prayer in solitude) door which are closed now. 

Masjid Wazir Khan

Khaleefa Bakery

One of the best and famous bakers of Lahore.

Dena Nath Haveli

Haveli Dina Nath is situated in the Phoolon Wali Gali inside Delhi Gate, Lahore. The architecture of Haveli Dina Nath has been changed enough till the present day.

Out Side the Haveli

Mubarak Haveli

A colossal haveli built by Mir Bahadur Ali, Mir Nadir Ali and Mir Bahar Ali, sons of a well-known 'tabeeb' and 'hakeem' during the time of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah. It took three years to build and when the three brothers moved in, Bahadar Ali's wife gave birth to a son. This was seen as a good omen and the 'haveli' was named Mubarak Haveli. The family continued to prosper in the field of 'medicine' and business. With time they branched off into two major components, the Fakir family and the Syed family.

In Lahore, If ever there was a haveli that could be labeled as among the oldest, and also the finest, without doubt it would be Mubarak Haveli, inside Mochi Gate area. It was here that the Koh-e-Noor Diamond was recovered from a trapped Afghan king. This 'haveli' has stories galore, ones that make history so interesting.

Mochi Gate

The Mochi Gate is a historical gate built during the Mughal period. In Urdu, Mochi means cobbler, which may indicate that the bazaar was once a market for shoes and repair shops. Another theory is that according to legend the gate was named after Moti, a guard of the gate during the Mughal era, who guarded and looked after the gate all his life. Later on, the name was distorted and became Mochi.

Today, the bazaar around the Mochi gate is renowned for its dry fruits, kites and fireworks. Mochi Gate is the entrance to the Mochi Bagh, where many renowned Pakistani leaders of past and present have delivered speeches.

Team Passing through Mochi Gate

Nisar Haveli

Nisar Haveli is an old mansion located inside mochi gate, walled city of Lahore.It is named 'Nisar Haveli' after Nawab Nisar Ali Khan Qizalbash (Late).

Nisar Haveli is the center of Mourning of Imam Hussain (a.s). Every year Lahore's Markazi Shabeh-e- Zuljanah of Yaum-e-Ashura emerges from Nisar Haveli Mochi gate that culminates at Karbala Gameshah. The route hasn't changed in over 150 years. Every year, as the sun descends on the ninth of Muharram, thousands of Shias make their way towards Mochi Gate in Lahore. From here, they walk through the maze of narrow streets in the walled city and reach Nisar Haveli.

Baking Virsa

Baking virsa has been serving food for last ten years. Another important thing is that you have to place order a day before and then go on the given time and enjoy your food. One of the oldest and finest 'Bakar khani' are made here. There orders go to England as well. And they complete the order in 3 days.

Gawalmandi Foodstreet

Food Street in Gawalmandi, Lahore is a center of traditional Pakistani food. Gawalmandi is basically very famous for their delicious and desi food. The site is surrounded by centuries-old buildings and places like landa bazaar, Mayo Hospital and Baansan-wala Bazaar.

As it was rainy weather that day still the photo walk went very good. Thanks to all the Participants who joined us and made this event successful. For more Pictures you can visit Locally Lahore Photo walk 2015 album on Facebook.

Download Locally Lahore Android & iPhone App. Join locally lahore on G+ and Facebook to get in touch with the latest information and events of Lahore.

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Posted by Anonymousa at Friday, March 13, 2015 0 comments

Havelis Of The Walled City Lahore

The Walled City of Lahore is full of rich culture and heritage. It possesses some of the most beautiful and historic Havelis and monuments which were constructed during Mughal, Sikh and British eras.

Haveli Baij Nath

Haveli Baij Nath is no exception. It is named after a Hindu courtesan Baij Nath during Ranjit Singh’s reign. A part of the Haveli is under Auqaf and a vocational training centre for girls is established there. It is said that an underground tunnel going to India also exist in this Haveli. The structure of the Heveli is a typical Sikh / Hindu architecture.

It possesses almost nineteen rooms and two basements including verandas and an open space backyard. The total area covered is 47 Marla. The Haveli is a masterpiece of architecture and heritage. The Haveli is in a dilapidated form at present, as the residents did not maintain it much. 

Haveli Dina Nath

Haveli Dina Nath is located in the city of Lahore. Trip to Lahore is incomplete without visiting the walled city of Lahore. If you want to see the haveli, you can reach the haveli fromPhoolon waali gali near the famous Delhi gate. Haveli Dina Nath is situated inside the Delhi Gate in Lahore. The Dina Nath Haveli is a heritage site and it is visited by local, domestic as well as International visitors.The trip to Walled city of Lahore is incomplete without visiting the Haveli Dina Nath. Currently, city government of Lahore is trying to restore the outer side and exterior of the building in order to maintain its historical importance.

History:

Dina Nath was a Hindu Pandit. He belonged to a Kashmiri Pandit Family. He was the Pandit of the famous temple in the walled city of Lahore at that time. He was the finance minister ofMaharaja Ranjit Singh. He was the famous courtesan of that time. He was the custodian of the temple. He was the brother of Baij Nath. The Haveli Dina Nath was owned by Pandit Dina Nath. Dina Nath Well is also a great tourist attraction at the Haveli.

Architecture:

The haveli had a Mughal architecture. In the past, there was a small fountain in the courtyard of the haveli. Before the partition of India and Pakistan, there was a room inside the haveli which was used as a Hindu temple. After the partition in 1947, many parts of the Haveli Dina Nath were changed year by year because of the needs and wants of the residents of the Haveli.

Currently, the Haveli is visited by many visitors and tourists because of its unique historical importance. After independence, more than 50 families were residing inside the haveli. In 1978, the Haveli Dina Nath was sold by the owner of the haveli. The residents bought the particular portion of the haveli in which they were residing in. With the passage of time and exposure, families started to shift from the haveli and currently only 20 families are residing inside the haveli.

Location: Haveli Dina Nath is situated in the Phoolon Wali Gali inside Delhi Gate, Lahore.

Haveli Mubarik Begum

Mubarak Haveli is the finest and oldest haveli’s located inside the walled city of Lahore.The haveli is located in old Lahore. It is situated near the Hakeeman Bazaar inside the Bhati gate. It is one of the major attrctions inside the walled city of Lahore. The Mubarak Haveli is visited by a large number of visitors and tourists. The City of Lahore is regarded as one of the eight old cities of the old world because of the old heritage buildings and havelis.

History:

It is a colossal haveli which was built during the reign of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah. The haveli was built by three brothers; Mir Nadir Ali, Mir Bahar Ali and Mir and Mir Bahadur Ali. After the death of their father who was well known hakeem and tabeeb at that time, they built the haveli. 

The haveli took three years to complete the construction and architecture. When they moved to live, Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah gave birth to a son, as it was a good omen so the haveli was named as Mubarak Haveli. The family continued to prosper in the field of medicine and hikmat. Later, the family was divided as Syed Family and Fakir Family.

Architecture:

It has been reported that the Koh-e-noor Diamond was recovered from a trapped Afghan King from this haveli hence it is named as Mubarak haveli. The haveli has a remarkable history that makes it unique as well as a must place to visit in Lahore. Mubarak Haveli has the finest architecture and it has multi foil arches which are supported with pillars. These give aesthetic and artistic sense to the Mubarak Haveli. The courtyard is made up of bricks. It s surrounded by number of rooms that make it more beautiful and add more charm to the Mubarak haveli.

Location: Haveli Mubarik Begum is situated near the Hakeeman Bazaar inside the Bhati gate

Haveli of Prince Nau Nihal Singh

Any one who is looking for significant and superb examples of Sikh architecture in Lahore would definitely not overlook the Haveli of Naunihal Singh, the son of Maharaja Kharak Singh and Rani Chand Kaur, and grandson of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

History:

In 1840, after the death of Kharak Singh, Naunihal Singh became the Maharaja of Punjab. But, a few days later, he too died in a mysterious incident, obviously a conspiracy hatched by the same vested interests.

After the death of Naunihal Singh, his mother took his place as regent for her grandson, the rightful successor of the throne but after some time, under pressure, she relinquished the throne to Sher Singh, another son of Mahraja Ranjit Singh. Rani Chand Kaur retired to her son's Haveli after her withdrawal from the throne.

Ultimately the British took over Punjab in 1849 and this Haveli also went under the possession of the British colonial power. In 1860, a girl’s school began here. The school is still ongoing under the name of “Victoria Higher Secondary School”.

Architecture:

It is an intact structure of over forty rooms with most elements of its original ornamentation preserved on the two main elevations and the interior courtyard facades. Rectangular in plan, the Haveli is a fairly large building. Its entrance is on the west side and the facade has been divided into two clear sections: one housing the entrance gate, which is abundantly decorated and the other is simple but has plenty of fenestration. If there was any decoration on this area, it has been destroyed by the ravages of time.

The building has a basement and four storey above the ground level. O the four, two storey encompass the whole area; the third storey is partially crumbled while the fourth stands in the northwestern corner and is called “Rang Mahal” - "The Palace of Colors".

RANG MAHAL: The “Rang Mahal”, like the Mughal “Hawa Mahal” or Palace of Winds, was traditionally built on the top of royal residences where fresh breeze could be enjoyed along with a view of the surroundings. The “Rang Mahal” of Naunihal Singh’s Haveli serves this purpose well. It is a jewel of artistic achievement. The wooden roof is richly decorated, divided into several geometrical compartments. Each is fitted with a small mirror in the centre. The northern and western walls have fenestrations in the form of windows and ventilators.

There are several other kinds of decorative works such as cut brick work, woodwork including carvings and engravings, painted floral motifs and stucco work. The cut brick work, however, is of the finest kind. It seems that Sikh craftsmen especially excelled in this kind of masonry. The carving of the bricks is so sharp, precise and accurate that bricks seem to be made of wax rather than of baked clay.

Govt. Victoria Girls High School:

The building has the status of preserved architecture under the local rules and laws. It serves as a well known educational institution, especially for the female students living in the walled city of Lahore. It provides room for more than 1500 girls between grades 6 to 10. While observing the present condition of this historic architecture and comparing it with many others of same era, one reaches the conclusion that the usage of this building as a school is far better than leaving it idle to ultimately crumble into ruins.

Location: Haveli Nau Nihal is Located between the historic Bhatti and Lohari gates, called Mori Gate.

Haveli of Khushal Singh and Dhian Singh

These havelis are part of a cluster of havelis known as Chuna Mandi Havelis, a significant group of historic buildings in the Walled City. It currently houses the Government Fatima Jinnah College for Women.

History:

Not long after British annexation, the haveli was fitted up as the first place of public worship for the Christian garrison stationed in the fort, and continued to be utilized as such until the tomb of Anarkali began to be employed for divine service in 1851.

At this time the palace served as Government District School. Later Government College made its beginning in this building when classes were begun by the first principal of the College, Dr. G. Leitner on January 1, 1864. It was in 1877, when the new college campus was constructed that the haveli was vacated and fell into desolation until its recent restoration.

Architecture:

Seeing the magnificent haveli, one can well believe that its owner must have spent a pretty penny on it. From its sprawling courtyards to its royal baths and from its arched hallways to its zenana gardens, the building is breathtakingly beautiful. But, perhaps what is far more important is that the haveli is as alive today as it was in its days of glory. Instead of being kept under lock and key it is being utilized as a college and every corner has been put to constructive use.

In fact, the college has put its premises to such fascinating use that it is not surprising to find students sitting in a math class that is bang next to a royal bath, or climbing up a dark turret that would lead them to their department. 

Jharokas and arched niches in the wall make for cozy and picturesque sitting arrangements where girls either partake of a snack or browse over their books. The school canteen, rather than being tucked away in some obscure corner is located right under the main entrance of the mansion, while the computer classroom and lecture hall are in the basement.

Government Fatima Jinnah College for Women

What’s more, the roof tops allow a quaint vista of the old city so that you can spot the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque and even the Minar-e-Pakistan if you climb right to the top. It is no wonder that the haveli is fast gaining popularity as an ideal venue for Basant celebrations.

But, what is most heartening to know is that the heritage site is being properly looked after. Conservation work on the haveli was carried out by the Lahore Development Authority before it was converted into a college. One does wish though that it could be made accessible to more people, for by and large it is bypassed by tourists visiting Lahore.

Location: Haveli Chuna Mandi is Located between the historic Kashmiri & Masti Gates Guzargah

Haveli Wajid Ali Shah

Wajid Ali Shah was fifth King of Oudh.He was the tenth and last Nawab of the princely kingdom of Oudh. The Haveli was mainly used by the traders of East India Company as their relaxation spot between their trade ventures.

Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was a very sophisticated person fond of traditional poetry, music, singing, dance and painting. But a true Nawab at heart, for him it was impossible to stay away even one day from dance and music. 

He invited the best singers and dancers from other parts of India to Haveli to entertain his guests that also include the East India Company officials.

Haveli Barood Khana

At the edge of Heera mandi stands a magnificent Barood Khana Haveli. The Heveli is located between Pani Wala Talab and Koocha Langay Mandi. This Heveli is a magnificent landmark, which is commonly known as Mian Salahuddin’s Haveli.

Mian Yousaf Salahuddin, popularly known as Yousaf Salli, is the grandson of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Mian Amiruddin. Talking about the historical significance of the haveli, he said it came into prominence in the Ranjeet Singh period.

It was built for the Sikh army’s commanding general around 230 years ago and was more of a corps commander house. It was the biggest arsenal outside Lahore Fort and built directly facing the fort as it was the tradition that arms, ammunition, gun powder, etc., had to be kept with the army chief. Part of the haveli was used as the general’s residence while the rest was used as offices and as an ammunition depot.

Lal Haveli

The exact date of construction is not known, but it was sometime in the late 19th century.

History:

This beautiful ‘haveli’ was built by the Maharajah of Kashmir for his favorite courtesan named Daru, hence its registered name ‘Mai Daru de Haveli’. Being so near Chowk Chakla it is understandable.

In those days courtesans, besides entertaining the rich, also educated the young in etiquettes, court manners and music appreciation. Even today in the old city a silly person is called “bay-surra” – out of tune.

Architecture:

Lal Haveli is a residential structure that has best preserved cut and chased brick work with plaster moldings on a fair faced brick ground having exquisite wooden jharokas on the three principal floors. The brick work has been kept painted over the decades with a coat of hurmuchi, or red ochre paint, which gave the house its name. 

The tall tales of the crumbling ‘Mai Daru de Haveli’ are amazing. There is a basement, and then there is a staircase that moves further down.

It is the biggest political place of Lahore and many political processions have taken place here. The people of this area love to fly kites. It is a big market of dry fruits and fireworks of every kind are available here.

Location: Lal Haveli is Located in Mochi gate.

Haveli Mian Khan

Haveli Mian Khan, a massive Heveli, was built in Emperor Shah Jahan`s reign by his Prime Minister Nawab Saadullah Khan. It was completed during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb by the Nawab`s son, Mian Khan, who was the then Governor of Lahore.

This grand edifice was spread over two square kilometres, and it was divided into three sections: the women`s quarter called `Zinnan Khana`, the men`s quarter which was called Rang Mahal, and the Qalai Khana, whose walls touched those of Masjid Chinyaanwali.

When the British took over Lahore in 1849, they converted Rang Mahal into a Mission School. Till date, the building is in use of the school. 

Haveli Mian Sultan

The Haveli Mian Sultan is located opposite to Dina Nath Haveli on the main royal trail inside Delhi Gate. The entrance to the haveli is from Gali Mian Sultan, a street named after the same man.

The Haveli is a three storey building with a small structure one can see as a fourth floor. There are a number of rooms inside the haveli, along with a beautiful Sheesh Mahal which is on the roof top. The Sheesh Mahal was built identical to the Sheesh Mahal inside the Lahore Fort.

Kimla Building

Kimla building, with beautiful exterior is located on the road, Gumti Bazaar, opposite to Pani Wala Talaab. This building is also known as Blakki Shah building.

Blakki shah was a Hindu who constructed this building on 17th April 1929. After partition the family shifted from India and resided here. At present only one family is residing here while others have been shifted outside the Walled City of Lahore.

Bangla Ayub Shah

Bangla Ayub Shah has great historical importance. It is situated inside the Kashmiri gate, which is one of the famous gates in the city of Lahore. The haveli or the building is under the possession of the District city of Lahore. The building is one of the major attractions in the Walled city of Lahore. Visitors and Tourists from all over the world love to visit this old masterpiece haveli. Currently, the haveli is under the process of renovation.

History:

Ayub Bangla was constructed in the Skih period. The bangla was overtaken by a chieftain named Ayub Shah in the year 1849. He renovated and rebuilt the whole building. 

After the renovations, he sold the building to an Afghan Prince and Afghan Royal Chief Shahzada Sultan. 

After the independence of Pakistan in 1947, the family sold most of the part of the property. More than half of the building was sold in 1960 and only one third was left behind.

Importance of Bangla:

The Bangla has a unique importance as it date back to about 160 years. Bangla Ayub Shah had a unique importance because of the “secret escape tunnels”. The secret escape tunnels at that time emerged from here. These secret tunnels head towards the Ravi River and the famous Delhi Darwaza also known as Delhi Gate.

Architecture:

Bangla Ayub Shah was a three storey building. There were two basements and a ground floor. Currently, major portion of the building has fallen and only a small portion is still present. Moreover the building at that time was built with bricks and stones of small sizes.

The roofs of the building are wooden having a great architecture. The roofs had a batten and beam system. A veranda is on the front side of the building. The veranda was built onRoman style and architecture. The interior of the haveli and the exterior of the haveli is finished with lime plaster.

Location: Bangla Ayub Shah is situated inside the Kashmiri gate.

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Posted by Anonymousa at Thursday, December 18, 2014 9 comments