It happened last week after long gap of 12 years , I got a chance to visit this beautiful place which is truly called the Pride of Awadh. It’s a Jewel in Indian Crown. This is the same place where I had spent 10 important years of my life. I last visited this place in 2005. But I felt that Awadhi Aan-baan and Shan have increased in these years. Capital of Uttar Pradesh , Lucknow is known for its nawabi culture which is unmatchable.

I got admission in 11th standard in one of the good colleges of Lucknow. Student life is considered to be the best in one’s life. I think I am lucky to be a part of this culture. Evenings spent in the lap of this city are unforgettable.

Hazratganj is the heart of the city which is shinning till now. Billboards reminded me of 90’s era. Black & white theme enhances the look of this huge shopping hub. Victorian style lamp posts and benches give it a traditional look. I spent almost 5 evenings sitting in the corner, remembering old days with college friends. Cathedral church, Hanuman mandir and mosque at the same place reminds us of secularism which is need of the day.

Unfortunately I am suffering from Psoriatic Arthritis which is extremely painful and because of this I could not visit many places. But the hospitality really made me emotional and overwhelmed.

Chikan work of Lucknow is famous all over the world. It’s elegant embroidery patterns and unique thread work can steal any woman’s heart who loves to see herself in royal nawabi attires. Flairs of shararas in combination with stylish Kurtis , fusion dresses like palazzo with long kurta gives royal look to urban women.

Seeing metro in a city like Lucknow was an eye candy. I have seen almost every beautiful city of India but Lucknow and it’s culture mesmerized me.

Awadhi cuisine is also very popular everywhere but real taste of this food can only be seen in Lucknow itself. Streets of Lucknow are filled with variety of food. From korma to biryani, chat to kulfi, kebabs to keema kaleji, aroma of awadhi cuisine can take your breath away. Royal café’s famous tokri chat, prakash & muskaan ki kulfi, south Indian food of Curry leaf , Aaryan’s delicious recipes and Radhey lal’s famous lassi and many more places are worth visiting for big foodies.

I went to take medical opinion on my problem but my college friends made my short visit very special. Their emotional touch made me strong and I think we must learn tameez & tehzeeb of this city’s culture. I am proud to say that real India lives in the heart of the people of Lucknow. They don’t count hours and money spent on you.

I wanted to spend more time with my friends but my health does not permit me to exert much. With tear filled eyes I said goodbye to my favourite city with a promise to visit again with my kids.