The City of Nawabs has added another jewel to its crown! Lucknow, renowned for its royal hospitality and legendary cuisine, has officially been inducted into UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the “Gastronomy” category.
The announcement by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay on October 31 placed Lucknow among 58 new global cities recognized this year for using creativity to drive sustainable urban development. With this, the total number of cities in the network has reached 408 across more than 100 countries.
A Global Honour for a City That Lives Through Its Food
From the smoky aroma of Tundey Kebabs to the delicate sweetness of Makhan Malai, Lucknow’s food culture is not just about taste—it’s a story of heritage, art, and identity. Each dish, perfected over centuries, reflects the city’s Mughal, Awadhi, and Nawabi influences.
“This recognition is an honour for every Lucknowite,” says Mohd Usman, owner of the iconic Tundey Kababi. “Here, food is not just a meal—it’s an emotion we share with pride and affection.”
A Culinary Legacy That Defines India’s Heritage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the global acknowledgment, writing on X (formerly Twitter):
“I am glad that UNESCO has recognised this aspect of Lucknow and I call upon people from around the world to visit Lucknow and discover its uniqueness.”
This recognition is expected to give a major boost to tourism, local food businesses, and cultural exchanges, positioning Lucknow as a must-visit culinary destination for travelers from around the world.
Lucknow: Where Culture Meets Creativity
Under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Lucknow will collaborate with other gastronomy cities to preserve traditional cooking techniques, promote sustainable food practices, and support local chefs and artisans. The move aligns with India’s growing soft power and cultural diplomacy initiatives.
Experts believe this could open new opportunities for food festivals, culinary research, and international cultural partnerships, placing Lucknow alongside world-renowned gastronomy hubs like Parma (Italy), Chengdu (China), and San Antonio (USA).
From Streets to the World Stage
Whether it’s the slow-cooked Galouti Kebab, fragrant Biryani, or the royal Sheermal, Lucknow’s culinary magic now carries the global stamp of UNESCO — a recognition that honours not just recipes, but a living heritage passed down through generations.
Lucknow has officially proven that its food is not just eaten—it’s experienced.
