Latest news with #Chowk
India.com
11-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Beyond Kebabs and Nawabs: How Lucknow's Local Markets Tell Its Real Story
As the capital city of Uttar Pradesh in India, Lucknow presents itself as a diverse city space combining historical value and cultural richness along with traditional traditions. Lucknow stands distinguished among Indian cities through its historical foundations alongside its respectable etiquette traditions and its delicious food reputation. Local markets in Lucknow serve as commercial centers where the true spirit of this city animates. Lucknow markets demonstrate the Museal grandeur of the past with Awadhan charm in combination with present-day energetic busyness. The Historical Roots of Lucknow's Markets Lucknow established its trading position in the Nawabi era after becoming the capital of the Awadh Nawabs. Through their patronage the Nawabs enabled the city to grow economically and culturally as markets became essential for daily needs. The Nawab rulers of Lucknow established an environment where different traditional elements merged because they invited skilled Indian workers across the nation to stay in the city. Through continuous operation bazaars preserve the city's original essence while maintaining its defining qualities to this day. Aromas and Flavors: Chowk and Aminabad Lucknow's culinary legacy becomes fully understood through exploring its two renowned food markets which are Chowk and Aminabad. Chowk Lucknow's famous Awadhi cuisine exists exclusively in Chowk which occupies the historic district of the city. Alongside Tunday Kababi the most legendary eatery in this area serves up its famous galouti kebabs that were invented when Nawab Wajid Ali Shah ruled the city. The renowned Rahim's Ki Mashoor Malai Makhan welcomes visitors to experience its beloved sweets including malai makhan alongside the nimish frothy dessert. The Chowk area's narrow streets generate an exquisite blend of spice fragrances and fresh paratha baking and boiling curry smells for visitors to explore historical times. Aminabad Aminabad, another historic market, serves as a gateway to Lucknow's gastronomic delights. Two landmarks stand out at this location: Idrees Biryani alongside Prakash Kulfi which have gained a universal fan following among both residents and visitors. Idrees Biryani prepares fragrant traditional dum cooking biryanis while Prakash Kulfi provides creamy kulfi (Indian ice cream) in flavors of mango and pistachio. Visitors can find complete satisfaction in Aminabad because this area boasts stores that specialize in both food items and textiles along with jewelry products. Handicrafts and Artistry: Nakhas and Hazratganj The city of Lucknow maintains its fame through its approach to beautiful craftsmanship using both the chikankari embroidery technique and zardozi artistry. Artistic heritage finds its perfect embodiment in the two distinguished markets of Nakhas and Hazratganj. Nakhas The bank of Gomti River serves as home to Nakhas Market which offers genuine chikankari garments to its visitors. Lucknow's cultural traditions preserve the delicate hand-embroidery art of Chikankari which took root during Mughal times. The marketplace provides many opportunities for bargain shopping of delicate embroidered kurtas and dupattas along with sarees. Among the affordable items available at Nakhas Market customers can find mojaris which are traditionally handcrafted leather shoes with decorative stitching. Hazratganj Nakhas preserves authenticity while Hazratganj creates a blend between old historical design and modern contemporary appeal. The shopping and dining destination Hazratganj functions as 'the Connaught Place of Lucknow' because it features luxury boutiques and upscale cafes along with bookstores throughout its framework. Traditional zardozi work stores that specialize in gold and silver thread embroidery can be found between contemporary establishments throughout the shopping districts. Traditional wedding clothes and formal outfits gain exceptional lavishness through the Zardozi embroidery technique which upholdsLucknow's artisanal heritage. Spiritual Significance: Gol Darwaza and Janpath Market The markets of Lucknow serve dual functions as they provide retail outlets yet they also possess sacred importance. The Gol Darwaza complex rests close to Chowk where visitors can explore the religious site which includes the Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza. Religious activities are the main focus of this area although people can find small vendors who sell flowers and incense sticks along with traditional foods including kachoris and jalebis around the religious site. The commercial district of Janpath Market shows the present changes happening to the city even though its history compares less to other markets. This market combines religious aspects with commercial offerings in its location adjacent to Indira Gandhi Pratishthan grounds. People can buy modern accessories with traditional spiritual items at this market which serves both young customers and preserves historical customs. Modern-Day Vibrancy: Gomti Nagar and Alambagh The expanding development of Lucknow has given rise to new marketplaces which serve as additional destinations besides its traditional marketplaces. The growing community of Gomti Nagar houses two upscale shopping destinations known as Fun Republic Mall along with Phoenix United Mall. The contemporary shopping spaces preserve fragments of Lucknow's authentic character. Food courts across shopping centers showcase classic local dishes of chaat and kebabs to preserve the original essence of the city through each period of change. Alambagh , another bustling area, combines wholesale trade with retail outlets. The business section of Alambagh Market displays Lucknow's capability to thrive economically while presenting a wide range of electronic and clothing products. People can easily reach this marketplace because it stands near the Alambagh Bus Station which enhances the area's ability to bring travelers into contact with the popular marketplace culture. In Short Local markets play a fundamental role in Lucknow because they illustrate the cultural heritage as well as the diverse tapestry of its people while representing the essence of the city. Every marketplace in Lucknow reveals historical and present-day aspects of the city by providing visitors with kebab dining in Chowk and chikankari appreciation in Nakhas and shopping in the stylish streets of Hazratganj. These commercial centers serve as active representations which embody the cultural value of Lucknow by combining grace with welcoming and accepting atmospheres. The soul of Lucknow emerges fully only when individuals wander through its markets to connect with people and absorb the entire sensory range of sights and sounds with flavors they provide.
NDTV
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Benaras Beyond Temples And Ghats: 7 Things You Must Absolutely Do While You Are There
When someone says 'Benaras' or 'Varanasi', what pops into your head? Probably the mesmerising Ganga Aarti, the sacred Manikarnika Ghat, the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, or maybe that peaceful sunset boat ride. Fair enough - these are classics that give the city its spiritual heartbeat. But Benaras is not only about its temples and ghats. It is a city where history, culture, and art casually bump into each other on every corner. Each lane has its own story, each bend has something going on, and every minute is a memory waiting to happen. This is your cheat sheet to a Benaras that is full of surprises. Less guidebook, more street-smart. Let us dive into it. 1. Take a heritage walk through the secret lanes of Varanasi Skip the regular tourist trail and wander into Varanasi's maze-like streets. These winding lanes are filled with age-old shrines, hidden courtyards, crumbling havelis, and the kind of snack joints that deserve their own fan base. Sign up for a heritage walk led by someone who knows the city inside out, and you might stumble upon forgotten temples, bizarre legends, and fun facts that never make it online. Quick tip: Your guide will help, but do not just follow their script. Talk to the locals. Their stories and humour add more magic to the walk. Also, hold on to your stuff - staying alert never hurt anyone. 2. Sit in on a soul-stirring classical music baithak Varanasi is the birthplace of Indian classical music greatness. From Pandit Ravi Shankar to Ustad Bismillah Khan, legends have lived and performed here. And the music scene is still alive - in cosy baithaks, age-old music schools, and even on floating boats in the Ganga. These performances are not just about sound; they feel like something spiritual that stays with you long after. Quick tip: Ask about baithaks the minute you land. Cultural centres usually know what is coming up. Many events are intimate and informal, so planning your trip around them is a great idea. 3. Try your hand at Banarasi silk weaving or toy making Benaras is a craftsman's city, too. In neighbourhoods like Madanpura and Lallapura, master weavers have been making Banarasi silk sarees for generations. Their looms create patterns so intricate, it is like watching poetry in motion. You can visit their workshops, meet the artisans, and even try the weaving yourself. For something different, head to Khojwa, where traditional wooden toys are still being made - a dying art that is worth your time and support. Quick tip: These hands-on experiences are best arranged through locals or cultural groups. So reach out in advance. 4. Go on a full-blown food trail in Old Benaras If you love to eat (and who does not), the alleys of Old Benaras are calling your name. Every twist in the road brings you face-to-face with something delicious. Whether you sign up for a food trail or do your own version, you are in for a treat. Start your day with spicy kachori-sabzi, head to Chowk for the legendary tamatar chaat, and if it is winter, do not miss the cloud-like malaiyyo that dissolves the second it hits your tongue. No food journey here is complete without the famous Banarasi paan. Wash it down with a rich lassi from the Blue Lassi Shop - served in a kulhad and often topped with fresh fruits and dry fruits. Quick tip: Show up hungry and curious. Your stomach will thank you. 5. Visit a peaceful ashram or a Sanskrit school Spend time in a quiet ashram or traditional Sanskrit school, where ancient Indian knowledge is still alive and kicking. Speak with scholars, attend open sessions on the Upanishads or Bhagavad Gita, or just sit in on Sanskrit chanting. These places are the real deal - no frills, just focus. Quick tip: Many institutions like this welcome guests, but they prefer that you reach out beforehand. That way, you are stepping in respectfully. 6. Explore Buddhist history in Sarnath Only 13 kilometres away from Varanasi is Sarnath, a calm and powerful spot where Buddhism made history. This is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa stands tall here - a huge stone structure from 500 CE that replaced an even older one built by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE. Right next door is the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, home to the Ashokan Lion Capital - the one on India's national emblem. Quick tip: Visit early morning or later in the day for a peaceful vibe. Get a guide - they make the history hit differently. 7. Watch kushti - traditional Indian wrestling - live Set your alarm early and head to an akhara - a local mud-wrestling arena. Here, you will find pehelwans training with full intensity in giant sand pits. Their routine is tough, disciplined, and deeply rooted in tradition. Quick tip: Morning is best, dress simply, and watch quietly. If you are lucky, someone might let you in on their training tips. Benaras wants you to pause, pay attention, and let it slowly get under your skin. Beyond the big-ticket attractions, the city offers little moments that turn into lifelong stories. Let it surprise you next time you visit - because it will.
