Lucknow, the historic ‘City of Nawabs,’ has achieved a landmark recognition with its inclusion in the prestigious UNESCO Creative Cities Network (CCN) under the ‘Gastronomy’ umbrella. This honor celebrates the city’s globally admired Awadhi cuisine, renowned for its delicate Galouti kebabs, rich biryanis, and unique Makkhan Malai, officially positioning it as a world-leading culinary destination.
The UNESCO CCN, expanded by Director-General Audrey Azoulay to include 58 new cities, now boasts a network of 408 cities worldwide. These cities are recognized for their innovative use of creativity to foster sustainable development and celebrate cultural heritage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his congratulations, describing Lucknow as a stellar representation of India’s rich cultural and gastronomic landscape. He extended an open invitation to the world to discover the city’s distinctive culinary experiences, highlighting its unique appeal to global travelers.
The Union Culture Minister remarked that this recognition serves as a fitting tribute to Lucknow’s exceptional culinary heritage and its substantial impact on India’s diverse food traditions. State officials also celebrated this achievement, viewing it as a symbol of India’s growing international influence.
Lucknow’s culinary legacy, deeply entrenched in Awadhi culture, represents centuries of refined cooking and warm hospitality, influenced by historical rulers. The city’s food scene, from its storied eateries to its vibrant street food culture, continues to enthrall. Food critics and celebrated chefs have widely applauded the UNESCO nod, acknowledging Lucknow’s profound and lasting influence on regional and national cuisines. This international recognition is expected to significantly enhance tourism in Uttar Pradesh, solidifying Lucknow’s status as a vital global hub for culinary arts and cultural exploration.