Lucknow

Lucknow, capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a historic city famed for its Nawabi culture, architecture, literature, and cuisine. Its origins go back to ancient times—tradition connects it with Lakshmana, brother of Lord Rama, who is believed to have founded Lakshmanapura on the banks of the Gomti River. Over centuries, the region was ruled by several dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals.

Lucknow’s golden age began in the 18th century, when it became the capital of the Awadh (Oudh) Kingdom under its Nawabs. In 1722, Saadat Ali Khan I, the first Nawab of Awadh, established his rule from Faizabad, but by the mid-1700s, Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula shifted the capital to Lucknow, transforming it into a centre of art, poetry, dance, and architecture.

Under the Nawabs, the city saw the construction of iconic monuments such as Bara Imambara, Chhota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and elegant gardens, kothis, and palaces. Lucknow became famous for its tehzeeb (etiquette), Urdu poetry, Kathak dance, and Awadhi cuisine.

In 1856, the British annexed Awadh, leading to strong local resentment. Lucknow became a major centre of the 1857 First War of Independence, especially during the Siege of the Residency.

After Independence, Lucknow grew into a major political, educational, and cultural hub. Today it stands as a vibrant blend of Nawabi heritage and modern urban development.