As part of our initiative ‘Spotlight on Diversity’, Rashmi Singh, Partner Designate, recently illuminated members of the Firm on the rich culture and heritage of the city of Lucknow.

Situated on the banks of River Gomti, Lucknow (‘City of Nawabs’ – erstwhile capital of the Kingdom of Awadh) remains one of the most sophisticated and preserved cultures of the Indian subcontinent. The immaculate mannerism of ‘pehley aap’ (after you) captures the spirit of Lucknow.

More than a city, Lucknow is a culture that conjures a symphony of words and senses – tehzeeb and takalluf, shayari and shorba, nihari and chikankari, poetry and prose, thumris and ghungroos. It is a genteel fusion of Hindu and Islamic cultural nuances with its buttery Lucknowi language, extraordinary history, awe inspiring monuments, resplendent textiles and heavenly cuisine. Its magnificent architectural marvels have earned it the sobriquet ‘Constantinople of East’. Begum Akhtar (1917-74) the queen of Lucknowi thumri and ghazals, told the world the sweetness and the diverse combination that Lucknowi singing could have. It was also home to one of the most famous exponents of kathak (an Indian classical dance form) in recent times – Pandit Birju Maharaj –  who passed away in early 2022. Chikan, zardozi and mukaish are the famed styles of embroidery that come from the city. As for food – mouthwatering  kebabs, biryani, chaat, paan and much, much more!

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