Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday joined the nationwide celebrations following Lucknow’s inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) as a Creative City of Gastronomy, calling it a moment of pride for India’s cultural and culinary heritage.
In a message on social media platform X, the Prime Minister highlighted that Lucknow, known for its vibrant culture and culinary legacy, has now gained global recognition for its distinctive gastronomic identity. He invited food enthusiasts from across the world to visit the Uttar Pradesh capital and experience its unique cultural and culinary traditions.
“Lucknow is synonymous with a vibrant culture, at the core of which is a great culinary culture. 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,” PM Modi wrote, responding to a post by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
The recognition marks Lucknow’s entry into UNESCO’s prestigious network, which aims to promote international cooperation among cities that place creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their development plans. The Creative City of Gastronomy title acknowledges Lucknow’s long-standing culinary heritage, especially its famed Awadhi cuisine, known for dishes such as kebabs, biryanis, and rich Mughlai-inspired delicacies.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, sharing the announcement on X, said Lucknow’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy underscores its distinguished contribution to India’s culinary traditions and global gastronomy. “Lucknow has been designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, a recognition of its distinguished culinary heritage and invaluable contribution to India’s rich gastronomic traditions,” Shekhawat posted.
He further added that the recognition elevates Lucknow’s international stature, positioning it as a leading destination for food, culture, and tourism. “This honour enhances Lucknow’s global stature, positioning it as a premier destination for food and culture, and opens new avenues for tourism promotion, culture-led economic growth, heritage conservation, and international collaboration through the UNESCO Creative Cities Network,” he stated.
Shekhawat also lauded Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for bringing Indian traditions and culture to the global forefront. “Guided by the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, India’s timeless traditions, culture, and values continue to attain unprecedented recognition and respect on the global stage,” the Minister added.
The inclusion of Lucknow in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network aligns with India’s broader efforts to promote its diverse cultural heritage and culinary tourism. The recognition not only highlights the city’s rich gastronomic heritage but also paves the way for international collaborations in sustainable urban development, cultural exchange, and heritage preservation.
With this honour, Lucknow joins the ranks of other global cities celebrated for their culinary excellence, reaffirming its status as one of India’s foremost cultural and gastronomic centres.
