The city of Lucknow recently celebrated its prestigious new global identity with a grand feast for the senses. The Repertwahr Festival Season 13 turned into a vibrant tribute to the city's rich culinary legacy, following its official recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The festival grounds buzzed with energy as the irresistible aromas of classic Awadhi cooking filled the air, drawing crowds of enthusiastic food lovers from every corner of the city.
A Festival Alive with Flavour and Heritage
The event served as a living showcase of Lucknow's gastronomic soul. Stalls were laden with an array of traditional delicacies, from succulent kebabs and fragrant biryanis to delicate desserts like the winter-special makhan malai. The celebration was a direct and delicious response to the honour bestowed upon the city. The UNESCO designation was announced in October 2025 during the UNESCO General Conference held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This significant achievement places Lucknow among a select group of 70 global cities celebrated for gastronomy, formally acknowledging its centuries-old food culture and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Voices from the Celebration: Pride and Passion
Visitors to the festival expressed immense pride in their city's global acknowledgment. "I have always had a deep love for Awadhi cuisine, and now it feels even more special knowing the world recognises its value," shared Reena Sharma, a festival-goer. She added that the recognition honours everyone from celebrated chefs to humble street vendors who keep the traditions alive.
Long queues at food stalls were a common sight, with people eager to savour classic dishes while exchanging stories about their favourite flavours. Amit Joshi recounted his delightful experience, saying, "I enjoyed the heavenly makhan malai after having Kakori and shami kebabs. It's absolutely fantastic that our city is now officially a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy." Another visitor, Priya Verma, praised the variety on offer. "I loved the authentic taste of Awadhi specials like galawati kababs, sheermal, and paya soup. The UNESCO tag is truly well-deserved for our city's incredible culinary heritage," she stated.
A Lasting Impact on Culinary Legacy
This UNESCO recognition is far more than just a title; it is a powerful validation of Lucknow's contribution to global culinary creativity and heritage preservation. The festival demonstrated how this honour has galvanised the local community, fostering a renewed sense of pride in their culinary identity. It highlights the city's role not just as a keeper of ancient recipes, but as a living, evolving centre of gastronomic excellence. The event successfully bridged the gap between the city's glorious past and its dynamic present, ensuring that the flavours of Awadhi cuisine continue to tell their story to the world.
