A benzothiazole functionalized chemosensor L 1 , exhibited colorimetric as well as fluorometric response to Zn 2+ ion at physiological pH based on CHEF process. Selective naked eye detection of Zn 2+ ion over most of the biologically important cations was also demonstrated. Sensing of biologically hazardous cadmium ion was also possible with L 1 . Further, both the zinc and cadmium ensembles of L 1 were found to respond P 4 O 7 4− and H 2 PO 4 − anion among other important biological anions and nucleotides via fluorescence quenching. Chemosensor L 1 , was also found to be reversible and recyclable toward Zn 2+ and pyrophosphate ions over more than six cycles and responds to a INHIBIT logic gate. NMR titration and theoretical calculations were also conducted to understand the sensing behavior of L 1 .