09th April, 2023
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Let's explore the story of Chait Ram in the streets of Lahore's Walled City. The Taxali Gate, now a distant memory, was once named after a mint established by Shah Jehan and served as the exclusive western entrance to the city. However, our journey through time focuses on the intricate lanes branching off Taxali Gate.
Chait Ram Road unfolds just beyond Taxali Gate, where the home of Ustaad Daman, a revered Punjabi poet, stands as a cultural landmark. The road then divides into 'Nicha Chait Ram Road' and 'Uncha Chait Ram Road.'
Chait Ram, a devout monk who once resided in Taxali Gate during the Sikh era, transcended conventional religious boundaries by embracing diverse spiritual practices. His religious affiliation remains a mystery, as local beliefs suggest that he may have been a Hindu who converted to Islam before his passing, as documented in historical accounts.
In Nicha Chait Ram, a small enclosure still houses Chait Ram's grave, reinforcing the local belief that he embraced Islam.
During my visit last year, I sensed a profound gratitude in this small area adorned with incense sticks and oil lamps. Chait Ram's grave stood there, a reflective symbol. The roads bear his name, and locals continue to regard him as a spiritual figure with mystical powers.
Chet Ram Road, on the other hand, gained fame for its mastery of crafting musical instruments. The twin Chet Ram Streets and adjacent thoroughfares form the nucleus of one of the Subcontinent's most recognized red-light districts. With historical roots in the Mughal and Sikh eras, this district has served as a cultural hub for centuries, known for its association with classical music, dance, and traditional performing arts. The structures along these historic streets, standing as silent witnesses to bygone eras, weave together tales of the past, contributing to the rich social and cultural fabric of Lahore.
