UNESCO praises the city’s cultural richness and visionary approach
Lucknow: In a landmark achievement, the Uttar Pradesh capital has secured global recognition by being inducted into the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the Gastronomy category. This prestigious title positions Lucknow among select cities worldwide celebrated for their rich cultural heritage and exceptional culinary identity.
The announcement was conveyed by Ernesto Ottone R., UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Culture, who formally informed Mayor Sushma Kharakwal of Lucknow’s inclusion and extended his congratulations.
On Thursday, at the Municipal Corporation headquarters, Municipal Commissioner Gaurav Kumar handed over the official UNESCO communication addressed to the Mayor. Several dignitaries, including Deputy Leader of the House Sushil Tiwari ‘Pammi’, SP Leader Kamran Beg, councillors Rajesh Singh Gabbar, Arun Rai, Mamta Rawat, former councillor Nagendra Singh Chauhan, Santosh Rai, Ram Kumar Verma, Additional Municipal Commissioner Lalit Kumar, Pankaj Srivastava, Namrata Singh, Arun Kumar Gupta, and Dr. Arvind Kumar Rao were present on the occasion.
Why Lucknow Was Selected
In its official note, UNESCO stated that Lucknow’s selection reflects its cultural wealth, the distinctiveness of its culinary traditions, and its commitment to creative-led development. The city’s legendary Awadhi cuisine, centuries-old food heritage, and evolving gastronomic ecosystem played a major role in securing this honour.
A New Global Role for Lucknow
Joining the UCCN places new responsibilities on Lucknow. According to UNESCO, the city must integrate culture and creativity at the core of its development strategies. Lucknow will now actively participate in various UCCN programmes, global conferences, reporting mechanisms, and knowledge-exchange initiatives.
The city has also been extended a special invitation to attend the 2026 Annual Conference of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, scheduled to be held in Essaouira, Morocco.
Strengthening Global Standing
UNESCO highlighted Lucknow’s potential to make meaningful contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—especially Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities.
With this recognition, Lucknow’s global profile receives a major boost. The city is no longer known only for its cultural grandeur, historical significance, and architectural legacy, but now proudly stands on the world map as a “Creative City” of Gastronomy.
This milestone marks a new chapter in Lucknow’s journey—one that blends heritage with innovation and positions the city as a global hub of culinary excellence.
