Lucknow remains a celebration of the regal Awadhi spirit of bygone years. Shiladitya and Debaditya Chaudhury, visited the capital of Uttar Pradesh, steeped in history, which has evolved with the times while retaining its old grandeur and traditions. They have come back inspired yet again to dig out lost recipes of Awadh, to be included in their 10th-anniversary menu of Oudh 1590. The brothers shared an album with The Telegraph.
Satkhanda – Initially intended to comprise seven storeys, Satkhanda was constructed by King Mohammed Ali Shah for his daughter for seeing the moon on auspicious days. The construction of the red-brick watchtower stopped right after four levels as the daughter breathed her last, and, later abandoned.
The famed Clock Tower of Husainabad was built to mark the arrival of Sir George Couper, the first lieutenant governor of the United Province of Awadh.
Rumi Darwaza – Conservation work-in-progress on one side of the incredible structure of Rumi Darwawa crafted by architects from Rome and Persi
The Universal Booksellers – The iconic Universal Booksellers which was frequented by legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray during the recce of the film Shatranj Ke Khilari.
The Bhool Bhulaiya gate prominently showcases fish as a motif, signifying the importance of fish in the Awadhi cuisine.
In front of the Bhool Bhulaiya gate, Lucknow. The architecture and the interior of Oudh 1590 is deeply inspired by the intricately designed grand structure of Bhool Bhulaiya.
Iftar break at Idris Biryani.
Nimish – An Awadhi dessert being sold at a roadside joint near Gol Darwaza
The Lucknowi Chaats being sold at Shukla Chaat Centre.
Shahi Tukda and Phirni being sold at an Id market in Lucknow.
We tried our hands at the famous Tunday Kababi, Aminabad.
Pictures: Shiladityaand Debaditya Chaudhury. They are the founder-directors ofOudh 1590 and Chapter 2, with a presence of 12 outlets spread across Calcutta and New Delhi