LUCKNOW city has been officially inducted into UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (CCN), under the ‘Gastronomy’ category, marking a global acknowledgement of its culinary heritage, officials said. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay on October 31 designated 58 cities as new members of the CCN, which now includes 408 cities across more than 100 countries. Cities in this network are recognised for their commitment to championing creativity as a driver of sustainable urban development, according to the UN agency.

 

The United Nations in India in a post on X said, “From mouth-watering Galouti Kabab to Awadhi Biryani, delectable Chaat and Golgappe, desserts like Makhan Malai and so much more -- Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh is a haven for food, enriched in centuries-old traditions.” Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the state tourism department submitted the nomination to the Union Ministry of Culture in January, which was later forwarded to UNESCO “after thorough evaluation” in March. “Under the visionary guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh has become a source of pride for the nation. Lucknow’s inclusion in the global network is a tribute to its rich culinary heritage and cultural vibrancy,” he said.

 

This recognition reaffirms the growing strength of the tourism sector and the State’s progress toward a ‘Viksit Uttar Pradesh’, the Minister said. The Uttar Pradesh Government, in a post on social media, said, “This recognition celebrates the city’s rich culinary traditions, Awadhi heritage, and its growing role in promoting sustainable and innovative gastronomy. A moment of pride for Uttar Pradesh, where every flavour reflects centuries of culture and creativity.” PM Modi hails UNESCO honour: Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the nationwide celebrations on Lucknow being designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy – a global recognition for Indian culture and traditions. Calling upon food lovers from across the world to visit Lucknow, the Prime Minister, in a message on X, said that Lucknow is synonymous with a vibrant culture, at the heart of which lies its rich culinary tradition. He noted that UNESCO’s recognition highlights this distinctive aspect of the city and called upon people, tourists, and travellers to experience Lucknow’s uniqueness at least once. Foodies rejoice: Lucknow’s food has always represented a paradise for gourmands, whether they slurp up its aromatic gravies or savour the silken delicacies.