| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Lucknow designated as UNESCO City of Gastronomy |
| Announced At | 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan |
| Key Highlight | Recognition of Lucknow's centuries-old culinary legacy and Awadhi cuisine |
| Nomination Process | Nomination dossier prepared by Directorate of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh, submitted to Ministry of Culture on 31st January 2025; India nominated Lucknow on 3rd March 2025 |
| Cultural Heritage | Highlighted Awadhi dishes like galouti kebab, nihari-kulcha, puri-kachori, tokri chaat, malai gilori, and makhan malai; reflects Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb and Hindu-Muslim cultural blend |
| Significance | Promotes sustainable tourism, preserves traditional recipes, supports local artisans and chefs, aligns with India's efforts to showcase soft power through culture and cuisine |
| Other Indian Cities in UCCN | Nine Indian cities now part of UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN); Lucknow joins in 2025 |
| UCCN Overview | Established in 2004, connects over 350 cities worldwide across fields like Music, Film, Literature, Design, Gastronomy, Crafts and Folk Art, Media Arts; promotes cultural exchange and sustainability |

