Lucknow – June 2025:
In a proud moment for India and a significant recognition of its culinary heritage, Lucknow has been officially nominated for inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) as a “City of Gastronomy.” The nomination celebrates the city’s rich and historic food culture, making it a potential global ambassador for South Asian culinary traditions.
🌍 What is the UNESCO Creative Cities Network?
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) is a flagship global program launched in 2004 to promote cooperation among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. Cities in the network specialize in one of seven creative fields: Crafts & Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music.
With this nomination, Lucknow could join international cities such as Tucson (USA), Parma (Italy), and Chengdu (China) that are already recognized for their contributions to global gastronomy.
🍛 Why Lucknow?
Lucknow’s nomination stems from its centuries-old culinary legacy, deeply rooted in Awadhi cuisine. The city is renowned for its:
- Galouti kebabs, kormas, nihari, and biryani
- Unique techniques like dum pukht (slow cooking)
- Distinct culinary lineage from the Nawabi era
- Skilled khansamas (royal chefs) who preserved and evolved traditional recipes
- Vibrant street food culture and food festivals that showcase traditional and modern interpretations of local dishes
“Lucknow is not just a city with great food — it’s a living museum of culinary art passed down through generations,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Culture.
🤝 National and Local Support
The nomination was made possible through collaborative efforts between the Government of Uttar Pradesh, local historians, chefs, cultural bodies, and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It’s part of a broader push to preserve intangible cultural heritage while promoting tourism and sustainable city development.
CM Yogi Adityanath praised the nomination, stating that it “honors Lucknow’s rich past and bright future as a global cultural destination.”
🏆 What Happens Next?
If the nomination is approved, Lucknow will become the third Indian city in the UCCN for gastronomy, after Hyderabad, which was designated in 2019. Being part of the network will allow Lucknow to:
- Collaborate on international culinary and cultural projects
- Promote sustainable gastronomy and food heritage
- Host global chefs, food researchers, and cultural events
- Strengthen local food-based economies and employment
✨ A Global Platform for a Timeless City
As the world turns its attention to cultural preservation and innovation, Lucknow’s nomination signals a resurgence in recognizing traditional Indian cities as global cultural beacons. For food lovers, historians, and cultural tourists, the City of Nawabs could soon be celebrated not just for its elegance and etiquette — but as one of the world’s great kitchens.
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