Lucknow Recognised as UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy

• Lucknow has earned international recognition after being designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy , celebrating its world-renowned Awadhi cuisine and centuries-old culinary traditions. The announcement was made during UNESCO’s 43rd General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan , marking a proud moment for India as Lucknow becomes the second Indian city after Hyderabad to receive this distinction.

Honouring Lucknow’s Culinary Heritage

• Known as the City of Nawabs , Lucknow’s cuisine reflects the refinement and artistry of the Awadhi culinary tradition , shaped under the patronage of the Nawabs of Awadh. Dishes such as galouti kebab, korma, biryani, and sheermaal showcase its balance of flavour, aroma, and craftsmanship. The famous dum pukht method of slow cooking—where food is sealed and cooked over a gentle flame—has become a signature of Lucknow’s gastronomy, representing both cultural continuity and culinary innovation.

India’s Growing UNESCO Creative Cities Network

• The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), established in 2004 , aims to promote sustainable urban development through culture and creativity. It now includes 408 cities worldwide across seven fields— gastronomy, literature, music, film, design, crafts and folk art, and media arts . With Lucknow’s inclusion, India now has 10 cities in the network, including Jaipur (Crafts), Varanasi (Music), Chennai (Music), Mumbai (Film), and Hyderabad (Gastronomy) . This milestone strengthens India’s global cultural footprint, especially in the culinary arts.

Evaluation and Global Standards

• To qualify as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, cities must demonstrate a deep connection between their food traditions, cultural identity, and sustainability . This includes supporting local producers, promoting culinary education, protecting traditional markets, and encouraging gastronomic innovation. UNESCO reviews each city’s performance every four years to ensure ongoing adherence to these standards and continued contribution to cultural diversity and sustainability.

Exam Summary

• Title: Lucknow – UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy

• Announced at: UNESCO 43rd General Conference, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

• India’s Position: Second Indian city after Hyderabad (2019)

• Network Founded: 2004 | Total Cities: 408

• Cuisine: Awadhi (known for kebabs, biryanis, and dum pukht technique)

The recognition places Lucknow on the global culinary map , encouraging tourism, cultural exchange, and sustainable food practices while reaffirming its legacy as India’s gastronomic capital .