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{{Short description|Indian culture with roots in Hindi and Urdu culture}}
{{more footnotes needed|date=April 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2019}}
[[File:Taj Mahal, Agra, India edit3.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Taj Mahal]] is a [[marble|white marble]] [[mausoleum]], one of the most important cultural sites of Uttar Pradesh.]]
[[File:Taj Mahal, Agra, India edit3.jpg|thumb|200px|The [[Taj Mahal]], a [[mausoleum]] in Uttar Pradesh, draws many visitors]]
The '''[[Culture]]''' of '''[[Uttar Pradesh]]''' is an Indian Culture which has its roots in the Hindi and Urdu literature, music, fine arts, drama and cinema. [[Lucknow]], the capital of Uttar Pradesh, has several beautiful historical monuments such as [[Bara Imambara]] and [[Chhota Imambara]]. It has also preserved the damaged complex of the Oudh-period [[British Resident]]'s quarters, which are being restored.
The '''culture of [[Uttar Pradesh]]''' has been shaped by its ancient [[Hindus|Hindu]] roots, medieval and early modern [[Muslims|Muslim]] empires, and its place in the struggle for independence from colonial rule. Modern Uttar Pradesh citizens are largely rural Hindu agriculturalists, with a large minority of Muslims concentrated in its cities.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Uttar Pradesh |url=https://southasia.ucla.edu/landscapes/indian-states/uttar-pradesh/ |access-date=2025-10-19 |website=MANAS |language=en-US}}</ref>


Uttar Pradesh attracts large number of visitors, both national and international; with more than 71 million domestic tourists (in 2003) and almost 25% of the All-India foreign tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh, it is one of the top tourist destinations in India. There are two regions in the state where a majority of the tourists go, viz. the ''Hindu pilgrimage circuit'' and the ''Agra circuit''.
== Languages ==
{{Main|Languages of Uttar Pradesh}}


''The pilgrimage circuit'' includes the holiest of the Hindu holy cities on the banks of sacred rivers [[Ganga River|Ganges]] and the [[Yamuna]]: [[Varanasi]] (also considered world's oldest city), [[Ayodhya]] (birthplace of [[Lord Rama]]), [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]] (birthplace of [[Lord Krishna]]), [[Vrindavan]] (the village where Lord Krishna spent his childhood), and Allahabad (Prayagraj) (the confluence or 'holy-sangam' of the sacred Ganges-Yamuna rivers).
A 2023 survey of the linguistic diversity of Uttar Pradesh found 101 different languages in the region out of the 122 languages found across India. [[Hindi]] and [[Urdu]] are collectively spoken by 80% of the population, and [[Bhojpuri language|Bohjpuri]] is also widely spoken. Five varieties of Hindi are found in the region: [[Awadhi language|Awadhi]], [[Braj Bhasha]], [[Bundeli language|Bundeli]], [[Bagheli language|Bagheli]] and [[Kannauji language|Kanauji]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://ruralindiaonline.org/en/library/resource/linguistic-survey-of-india---uttar-pradesh/ |title=Linguistic Survey of India - Uttar Pradesh |date=2023-07-01 |language=en}}</ref>


The city of [[Agra]], gives access to three [[World Heritage Site]]s: [[Taj Mahal]], [[Agra Fort]] and the nearby [[Fatehpur Sikri]].<ref name=Heritage>{{cite web|title=World Heritage List|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/|publisher=Archaeological Survey of India|access-date=03/07/1998}}</ref> Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] [[Emperor Shah Jahan]] in memory of his beloved wife, [[Mumtaz Mahal]]. It is cited as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". Agra Fort is about 2.5&nbsp;km northwest of its much more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. The fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city. Fatehpur Sikri was the world-famous 16th-century capital city near Agra, built by the Mughal emperor [[Akbar the Great]], whose [[Tomb of Akbar the Great|mausoleum]] in Agra is also worth a visit.
[[Hindi|Standard Hindi]] was declared the official language of Uttar Pradesh in 1968 and is widely spoken in the region today. As of 2025 legislators in Uttar Pradesh may also communicate in four of the widely-spoken native languages Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Bundeli, and Braj Bhasha while in session.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=UP Legislators Can Now Speak in Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Bundelkhandi, Braj. Why Not Urdu, Asks Opposition |url=https://thewire.in/government/up-assembly-four-regional-languages-english-opposition-urdu |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=The Wire |language=en}}</ref> Widely spoken among the [[Muslims|Muslim]] population of Uttar Pradesh, [[Urdu]] was recognized as the second official language of the state in 1989, although the law limited its official use to specific contexts.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite book |last=Experts |first=Disha |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4D44EAAAQBAJ&q=bhojpuri+second+language+uttar+pradesh |title=Amazing Uttar Pradesh - General Knowledge for UPPSC, UPSSSC & other Competitive Exams |date=2020-07-01 |publisher=Disha Publications |isbn=978-93-90486-72-4 |language=en}}</ref>
[[Dayal Bagh]] in Agra is a modern-day temple and popular tourist sight. Its lifelike sculptures in marble are unique in India. Agra's dubious modern attractions include Asia's largest Spa as well as Asia's second 6D theatre.


==Culture from cities==
==Religion==
[[Varanasi]] is widely considered to be one of the oldest cities in the world and It is famous for its [[ghats]] (bathing steps along the river), full of pilgrims year-round who come to bathe in the sacred Ganges River. [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]] is world-famous for its colourful celebrations of the [[Holi]] festival, which attracts many tourists also&nbsp;–  thanks partly to the hype, which the Indian film industry has given to this highly entertaining socio-religious festival.
{{Main|Religion in Uttar Pradesh}}


Thousands gather at Allahabad (Prayagraj) to take part in the [[Magh Mela]] festival, which is held on the banks of the Ganges. This festival is organised on a larger scale every 12th year and is called the [[Kumbha Mela]], where over 10 million Hindu pilgrims congregate&nbsp;– proclaimed as one of the largest gathering of human beings in the world. [[Badaun]] is a religiously important city with many historical monuments and tombs of famous people which attracts thousands of tourists annually.
Uttar Pradesh is home to important Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist holy sites and associated pilgrimages, including the holy city of [[Varanasi]], the sacred [[Ganges]] river, and [[Mathura]], regarded in some traditions as the birthplace of [[Krishna]] and [[Rama]].  


The historically important towns of [[Sarnath]] and [[Kushinagar]] are located not far from Varanasi. [[Gautama Buddha]] gave his first sermon at Sarnath after his enlightenment and died at Kushinagar; both are important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. Also at Sarnath are the [[Pillars of Ashoka]] and the [[Lion Capital of Ashoka]], both important archaeological artefacts with national significance. At a distance of 80&nbsp;km from Varanasi, [[Ghazipur]] is famous not only for its Ganges Ghats but also for the Tomb of British potentate [[Lord Cornwallis]], maintained by the [[Archaeologic survey of India]].
An estimated 400 million pilgrims arrived in [[Prayagraj]] (Allahabad) to take part in the 2025 [[Kumbh Mela|Maha Kumbha Mela]], making it the world's biggest religious gathering. The event takes place once every 12 years, but smaller gatherings occur more frequently.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Iyer |first=Aishwarya S. |date=2025-01-13 |title=One of the world’s greatest religious spectacles is underway and the numbers are staggering |url=https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/12/travel/india-maha-kumbh-mela-2025-intl-hnk |access-date=2025-10-19 |website=CNN |language=en}}</ref>
 
Another significant Hindu pilgrimage site, Varanasi, is strongly associated with death and reincarnation. Mourners bring the ashes of loved ones to be scattered here, and those near death make the pilgrimage in hopes of dying in what they regard as the home of Lord Shiva. Although a variety of funerary traditions take place in Varanasi, it's common to carry the dead down the [[Ghat|ghats]] to bathe in the Ganges prior to a funeral pyre.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Varanasi - Worship - GCSE Religious Studies Revision - WJEC |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zg4ymsg/revision/7 |access-date=2025-10-19 |website=BBC Bitesize |language=en-GB}}</ref>
 
[[Holi]] celebrations also draw visitors to Uttar Pradesh with unique local traditions like the [[Lathmar Holi]]. The Lathmar Holi celebrates a story of the courtship of Krishna and [[Radha]] in which Radha and her friend drove the god from [[Barsana]] with sticks. Today, the residents of Barsana recreate this event, as the women hurl sticks at the men participating in the ritual.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=India Today Web |date=2016-03-21 |title=What is Lathmar Holi? Why is it celebrated? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/culture/story/why-is-lathmar-holi-celebrated-in-barsana-and-nandgaon-314276-2016-03-21 |access-date=2025-10-19 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>


== Architecture ==
== Architecture ==
{{Main|Architecture of Uttar Pradesh}}
{{Main|Architecture of Uttar Pradesh}}
Uttar Pradesh is home to multiple [[World Heritage Site]]s celebrating the historical architecture of the region, including the [[Taj Mahal]], [[Agra Fort]] and the nearby [[Fatehpur Sikri]].<ref name="Heritage">{{cite web |title=World Heritage List |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/ |access-date= |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India}}</ref>
* The Agra Fort (also called the Red Fort of Agra) was the imperial city of the 16th century Mughal rulers and contains several palaces, audience halls, and mosques.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Centre |first=UNESCO World Heritage |title=Agra Fort |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/251/ |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |language=en}}</ref>
* Fatehpur Sikri ("The City of Victory") was built in three years on the order of the Mughal emperor [[Akbar]] between 1571 and 1573 to serve as the new capital city of the Mughal empire.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Centre |first=UNESCO World Heritage |title=Fatehpur Sikri |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/255/ |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |language=en}}</ref>
* The Taj Mahal is a 17th century [[mausoleum]] built by Mughal [[Emperor Shah Jahan]] in memory of his beloved wife, [[Mumtaz Mahal]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Centre |first=UNESCO World Heritage |title=Taj Mahal |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/252/ |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |language=en}}</ref>


==Dance and Music==
==Dance and Music==
[[File:Kathak 3511900193 986f6440f6 b retouched.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Kathak]] is a famous dance form, the most important cultural figure and indigenous to Uttar Pradesh.]]
{{Unreferenced section|date=February 2022}}
The state is home to a very old tradition in dance and music. During the eras of [[Gupta Empire|Guptas]] and [[Harsha|Harsh Vardhan]], Uttar Pradesh was a major centre for musical innovation. [[Swami Haridas]] was a great saint-musician who championed [[Hindustani Classical Music]]. [[Tansen]], the great musician in Mughal Emperor [[Akbar]]'s court, was a disciple of [[Swami Haridas]].
[[File:Namrata Rai Kathak Dancer.jpg|thumb|209x209px|Kathak]]
[[File:Kathak 3511900193 986f6440f6 b retouched.jpg|thumb|200px| Clothing and dance indigenous to Uttar Pradesh.]] During the [[Gupta Empire|Gupta]] and [[Harsha|Harsh Vardhan]] eras, Uttar Pradesh was a centre for musical innovation. [[Swami Haridas]] was a musician who championed [[Hindustani Classical Music]]. [[Tansen]], a musician in Mughal Emperor [[Akbar]]'s court, was a disciple of [[Swami Haridas]].


[[Kathak]], a classical dance form, involving gracefully coordinated movements of feet along with entire body, grew and flourished in Uttar Pradesh. [[Wajid Ali Shah]], the last [[Nawab of Awadh]], was a great patron and a passionate champion of Kathak. Today, the state is home to two prominent schools of this dance form, namely, Lucknow [[Gharana]] and Banaras [[Gharana]].
A popular form of classical dance in Northern India, [[Kathak]] originated in Uttar Pradesh in the 18th century as part of temple worship in [[Vrindavan]] and [[Mathura]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-11-08 |title=Uttar Pradesh - Culture, Religion, Cuisine {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Uttar-Pradesh/Cultural-life |access-date=2025-11-09 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref> [[Wajid Ali Shah]], the last [[Nawab of Awadh]], was a patron and champion of Kathak. Today, the state is home to three prominent schools of this dance form, Lucknow [[Gharana]], Jaipur Gharana and Banaras [[Gharana]].


Well-known music personalities such as [[Naushad Ali]], [[Talat Mehmood]], [[Begum Akhtar]] hihi , [[Anup Jalota]], [[Shubha Mudgal]], [[Bismillah Khan]], [[Ravi Shankar]], [[Kishan Maharaj]], [[Vikash Maharaj]], [[Hari Prasad Chaurasia]], [[Gopal Shankar Misra]], [[Siddheshwari Devi]], [[Girija Devi]] and Sir [[Cliff Richard]] were originally from Uttar Pradesh.
Music personalities including [[Naushad Ali]], [[Talat Mehmood]], [[Begum Akhtar]], [[Anup Jalota]], [[Shubha Mudgal]], [[Bismillah Khan]], [[Ravi Shankar]], [[Kishan Maharaj]], [[Vikash Maharaj]], [[Hari Prasad Chaurasia]], [[Gopal Shankar Misra]], [[Siddheshwari Devi]], [[Girija Devi]] and Sir [[Cliff Richard]] were originally from Uttar Pradesh.


The region's folk heritage includes songs called [[rasiya]] (known and especially popular in [[Braj]]), which celebrate the divine love of [[Radha]] and [[Krishna]]. These songs are accompanied by large [[drum]]s known as [[bumb (drum)|bumb]] and are performed at many festivals. Other folk dances or folk theater forms include [[Raslila]], [[Swang (dance drama)|Swang]], [[Ramlila]] (a dramatic enactment of the entire [[Ramayana]]), [[Nautanki]], [[Naqal]] (mimicry) and [[Qawwali]].
The region's folk heritage includes songs called [[rasiya]] (especially popular in [[Braj]]), which celebrate the mythological love of [[Radha]] and [[Krishna]]. These songs are accompanied by large [[drum]]s known as [[bumb (drum)|bumb]] and are performed at many festivals. Other folk dances or folk theater forms include [[Raslila]], [[Swang (dance drama)|Swang]], [[Ramlila]] (a dramatic enactment of the entire [[Ramayana]]), [[Nautanki]], [[Naqal]] (mimicry) and [[Qawwali]].


The [[Bhatkhande Music Institute]] is situated in Lucknow.
The [[Bhatkhande Music Institute]] is situated in Lucknow.
== Languages ==
{{Main|Languages of Uttar Pradesh}}
The common state-language of Uttar Pradesh is standard Hindi. While standard Hindi ([[Khari boli]]) is the official language, several important regional Hindi 'dialects' are spoken in the state and among these are: [[Awadhi]], [[Bhojpuri]], [[Braj]], [[Kannauji]], [[Kaurvi]], [[Gurjari]], [[Bagheli]] and [[Bundeli]], besides several local dialects that do not have a formal name. Urdu is prominent in Uttar Pradesh as Lucknow was once the centre of Indo-Persianate culture in north India. The language of Lucknow ("Lakhnavi Urdu") is a form of high literary Urdu.
Dr. Parichay Das is path-breaker poet, essayist, creative critic and singer-actor in Bhojpuri-Hindi-Maithili.  He was born in Mau nath Bhanjan district 's Rampur Devlaas village. He was Secretary, Hindi Academy, Delhi and Secretary, Maithili-Bhojpuri Academy, Delhi Govt. He has written and edited more than 30 books.


==Tourism==
==Tourism==
Uttar Pradesh attracts large number of visitors, both national and international; with more than 71 million domestic tourists (in 2003) and almost 25% of the All-India foreign tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh, it is one of the top tourist destinations in India.<ref name="ibef.org">[http://www.ibef.org/download/Uttar%20Pradesh_25April_08.pdf Uttar Pradesh], October 2007</ref> There are two regions in the state where a majority of the tourists go, viz. the ''Agra circuit'' and the ''Hindu pilgrimage circuit''.


The city of [[Agra]], gives access to three [[World Heritage Site]]s: [[Taj Mahal]], [[Agra Fort]] and the nearby [[Fatehpur Sikri]].<ref name="Heritage"/>  Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] [[Emperor Shah Jahan]] in memory of his beloved wife, [[Mumtaz Mahal]]. It is cited as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". Agra Fort is about 2.5&nbsp;km northwest of its much more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. The fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city. Fatehpur Sikri was the world-famous 16th-century capital city near Agra, built by the Mughal emperor [[Akbar the Great]], whose [[Tomb of Akbar the Great|mausoleum]] in Agra is also worth a visit.
Uttar Pradesh attracts large number of visitors, both national and international; with more than 71 million domestic tourists (in 2003) and almost 25% of the All-India foreign tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh, it is one of the top tourist destinations in India. There are two regions in the state where a majority of the tourists go, the Hindu pilgrimage circuit and the Agra circuit.
[[Dayal Bagh]] in Agra is a modern-day temple and popular tourist sight. Its lifelike sculptures in marble are unique in India. Agra's dubious modern attractions include Asia's largest Spa as well as Asia's second 6D theatre.


''The pilgrimage circuit'' includes the holiest of the Hindu holy cities on the banks of sacred rivers [[Ganges River|Ganges]] and the [[Yamuna]]: [[Varanasi]] (also considered world's oldest city), [[Ayodhya]] (birthplace of [[Lord Rama]]), [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]] (birthplace of [[Lord Krishna]]), [[Vrindavan]] (the village where Lord Krishna spent his childhood), and Allahabad (Prayagraj) (the confluence or 'holy-Sangam' of the sacred Ganges-Yamuna rivers).
The pilgrimage circuit includes the most religiously prestigious of the cities considered holy in Hinduism on the banks of the [[Ganges]] and [[Yamuna]], rivers which are also considered sacred: [[Varanasi]], [[Ayodhya]] ( the birthplace of [[Rama]]), [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]] ( the birthplace of [[Krishna]]), [[Vrindavan]] (where Lord Krishna spent his childhood), and Allahabad (Prayagraj) (the confluence or 'holy-sangam' of the Ganges-Yamuna rivers).{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}


[[Varanasi]] is widely considered to be one of the oldest cities in the world. It is famous for its [[ghats]] (bathing steps along the river), full of pilgrims year-round who come to bathe in the sacred Ganges River.
[[Dayal Bagh]] in Agra is a modern-day temple and tourist site with lifelike marble sculptures.  


{{wide image|Varanasi panorama.jpg|900px|A view of the Ghat of Varanasi from the [[River Ganges]]}}
[[Prem Mandir, Vrindavan]], is called the "temple of love."
 
[[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]] is world-famous for its colourful celebrations of the [[Holi]] festival, which attracts many tourists also&nbsp;–  thanks partly to the hype, which the Indian film industry has given to this highly entertaining socio-religious festival.{{citation needed|date=December 2010}}
 
Thousands gather at Allahabad (Prayagraj) to take part in the [[Magh Mela]] festival, which is held on the banks of the Ganges. This festival is organised on a larger scale every 12th year and is called the [[Kumbha Mela]], where over 10 million Hindu pilgrims congregate&nbsp;– proclaimed as one of the largest gathering of human beings in the world.
 
[[Budaun]] is also a city which attracts thousands of tourists annually. Its religious city with many historical monuments and tombs of many famous people.
 
The historically important towns of [[Sarnath]] and [[Kushinagar]] are located not far from Varanasi. [[Gautama Buddha]] gave his first sermon at Sarnath after his enlightenment and died at Kushinagar; both are important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. Also at Sarnath are the [[Pillars of Ashoka]] and the [[Lion Capital of Ashoka]], both important archaeological artefacts with national significance. At a distance of 80&nbsp;km from Varanasi, [[Ghazipur]] is famous not only for its Ganges Ghats but also for the Tomb of British potentate [[Lord Cornwallis]], maintained by the [[Archaeological Survey of India]].
 
[[Lucknow]], the capital of Uttar Pradesh, has several beautiful historical monuments such as [[Bara Imambara]] and [[Chhota Imambara]]. It has also preserved the damaged complex of the Oudh-period [[British Resident]]'s quarters, which are being restored.
Bareilly is also an important city of Uttar Pradesh which is also popular as "Nath Nagari","The Jhumka City" and "Bamboo City". There are 5 Nath temples in Bareilly, one at each corner and one in the middle of the city. It is a mediator city between Lucknow and NCR Delhi with not much rush and peaceful atmosphere.


==Protected areas==
==Protected areas==
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* [[Dudhwa National Park]] is one of the best tiger reserves in the country.
* [[Dudhwa National Park]] is one of the best tiger reserves in the country.
* [[Pilibhit Tiger Reserve]]&nbsp;– home to the Tiger Reserve.situated in district Pilibhit.
* [[Pilibhit Tiger Reserve]] – home to the Tiger Reserve.situated in district Pilibhit.
* [[Sandi Bird Sanctuary]]&nbsp;– houses about 20,000 migratory birds annually.
* [[Sandi Bird Sanctuary]] – houses about 20,000 migratory birds annually.
* [[Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary]]&nbsp;– the most concentrated sanctuary in India with a large population of tigers as well as [[leopards]]&nbsp;– situated in [[Bahraich]] and bordering [[Nepal]] is also worth a visit.
* [[Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary]] – the most concentrated sanctuary in India with a large population of tigers as well as [[leopards]] – situated in [[Bahraich]] and bordering [[Nepal]] is also worth a visit.


Some areas require a [[Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958 (India)|special permit]] for non-Indians to visit.
Some areas require a [[Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958 (India)|special permit]] for non-Indians to visit.
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==Dress==
==Dress==
The people of Uttar Pradesh wear a variety of native- and Western-style dress. Traditional styles of dress include colourful draped garments&nbsp;– such as [[sari]] for women and [[dhoti]] or [[lungi]] for men&nbsp;– and tailored clothes such as [[salwar kameez]] for women and [[kurta]]-[[pajamas|pyjama]] for men. Men also often sport a head-gear like [[topi]] or [[pagri]]. [[Sherwani]] is a more formal male dress and is frequently worn along with [[chooridar]] on festive occasions. European-style trousers and shirts are also common among men. Young adults are most commonly found in jeans and t-shirts.
The people of Uttar Pradesh wear a variety of native- and Western-style dress. Traditional styles of dress include colourful draped garments&nbsp;– such as [[sari]] and [[ghagra choli]] for women and [[dhoti]] or [[lungi]] for men&nbsp;– and tailored clothes such as [[salwar kameez]] for women and [[kurta]]-[[pajamas|pyjama]] for men. Men also often sport a headgear like [[topi]] or [[pagri]]. [[Sherwani]] is a more formal male dress and is frequently worn along with [[chooridar]] on festive occasions. European-style trousers and shirts are also common among men. Young adults are most commonly found in jeans and t-shirts.
 
==Arts and crafts==
[[File:PIETRA DURA - Agra - India.png|thumb|210px|A ''[[Pietra Dura]]'' marble table top ([[Agra]])]]
Uttar Pradesh includes many historical and modern centres of artistic movements and crafts, and [[Allahabad]] (Prayagraj) is home to the National Institute of Art & Craft College.
 
=== Textile arts ===
[[Zardozi]] and [[chikankari]] are both traditions of embroidery that employ metal wire.
 
[[Banarasi sari|Banarasi saris]] are similarly notable for their use of metal thread in weaving the brocade.
 
[[Bhadohi]] produces carpets, a craft which dates back to the 16th century during the reign of [[Mughal Emperor]], [[Akbar]]<ref name="te">{{cite web |date=31 January 2009 |title=Famous for its handmade carpet industry |url=http://www.tehelka.com/story_main41.asp?filename=Ne310109worn_down.asp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925063702/http://www.tehelka.com/story_main41.asp?filename=Ne310109worn_down.asp |archive-date=2011-09-25 |publisher=[[Tehelka]] Magazine |volume=6 |issue=4}}</ref> Bhadohi carpets received the [[Geographical Indication]] (GI) tag in 2010,<ref name="to">{{cite news |last1=Singh |first1=Binay |date=9 September 2010 |title=Famed Bhadohi carpet gets GI tag |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-09/varanasi/28226568_1_bhadohi-mirzapur-bhadohi-carpet-carpet-manufacturers-association |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034702/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-09/varanasi/28226568_1_bhadohi-mirzapur-bhadohi-carpet-carpet-manufacturers-association |archive-date=5 November 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> and it is one of the highest revenue-generating districts of UP.
 
=== Pottery ===
Introduced by an Afghan military campaign over 500 years ago, [[Khurja pottery]] is often confused with a similar tradition in Jaipur, but received its Geographic Indication tag recognizing its uniqueness in 2015. Its artisans closely guard the secret of its distinctive blue glaze.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-06-01 |title=GI certificate to preserve uniqueness of Khurja pottery |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/GI-certificate-to-preserve-uniqueness-of-Khurja-pottery/articleshow/47498632.cms |access-date=2025-10-17 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>


==Art and craft==
[[Gorakhpur]]'s animal sculptural tradition commonly depicts horses, elephants, camels, and oxen. It received its Geographic Indication tag in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NABARD - National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development |url=https://www.nabard.org/gi/GIProductDetails.aspx?Id=36#:~:text=Gorakhpur's%20terracotta%20art%20spans%20generations,camels,%20goats,%20and%20oxen. |access-date=2025-10-17 |website=www.nabard.org}}</ref>
[[File:PIETRA DURA - Agra - India.png|thumb|210px|A marble table top in ''[[Pietra Dura]]'', [[Agra]]]]
Uttar Pradesh is famous for its rich heritage of art and craft. Most famous centres are the following:


* [[Agra]] since the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] era has been home to numerous Mughal crafts, including the ''[[Pietra Dura]]'', still practised today.
Characterized by its recognizing the metallic black finish and silvery etched designs inspired by medieval [[Bidriware]], the origins of the black pottery of [[Nizamabad Assembly constituency|Nizamabad]] remain unclear. Local folklore generally places its origin in the Mughal period and attributes it to Gujarat artisans who immigrated to the Uttar Pradesh. The tradition received its [[Geographical indication|Geographic Indication]] tag in 2015.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-04-24 |title=Forget the pot & kettle, black is the calling in Nizamabad |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/forget-the-pot-kettle-black-is-the-calling-in-nizamabad/articleshow/109557234.cms |access-date=2025-10-17 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
* [[Aligarh]] is famous for its Lock around the world; Aligarh boasts for its [[Zardozi|Zari work]], (a type of fabric decoration), 'Jhumka'&nbsp;– an intricate ear-rings or ear-pendants, [[Manja (kite)|Manja]] and Surma ([[Kohl (cosmetics)]]), despite all these craftwork, painter S. A. Jafar represent Aligarh in the field of fine arts across India and abroad.
* [[Firozabad]], the city of bangles, is also a hub for crafting many glass accessories. The glass artefacts produced in its factories are of high value and are exported all over the country and around the world.
* [[Kannauj]] is well known for oriental perfumes, scents and rose water and also for traditional tobacco products.
* [[Khurja]] is famous for its [[Khurja pottery|ceramics pottery]]; in fact, the entire state is famous for its pottery not only in India but also around the world.
* [[Lucknow]], the capital, boasts of its cloth work and embroidery ([[chikan (embroidery)|chikan]]) work on silk and cotton garments.
* Allahabad (Prayagraj) is known for its National Institute of Art & Craft College.
* [[Bhadohi]] is known for its carpets, a craft which dates back to the 16th century, during the reign of [[Mughal Emperor]], [[Akbar]]<ref name="te">{{cite web|url=http://www.tehelka.com/story_main41.asp?filename=Ne310109worn_down.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925063702/http://www.tehelka.com/story_main41.asp?filename=Ne310109worn_down.asp|url-status=dead|archive-date=2011-09-25|title=Famous for its handmade carpet industry|date=Vol 6, Issue 4, Dated 31 Jan 2009|publisher=[[Tehelka]] Magazine}}</ref> and is believed to have established when centuries ago, some [[Iran]]ian master weavers stopped at Madhosingh village, near [[Khamaria]], in Bhadohi while travelling in India, and subsequently set up looms here. Bhadohi carpets received the [[Geographical Indication]] (GI) tag in 2010,<ref name="to">{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-09/varanasi/28226568_1_bhadohi-mirzapur-bhadohi-carpet-carpet-manufacturers-association|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034702/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-09/varanasi/28226568_1_bhadohi-mirzapur-bhadohi-carpet-carpet-manufacturers-association|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 November 2012|title=Famed Bhadohi carpet gets GI tag|date=9 Sep 2010|first1=Binay|work=[[The Times of India]]|last1=Singh}}</ref> and also known as dollar-city; beside this, it is one of the highest revenue-generating districts of UP.
* [[Moradabad]] is well known for its metal-ware, especially brass artefacts.
* [[Pilibhit]] is known for its wooden footwear (locally called [[Paduka]] or [[Khadaon]]) and also for flutes made of wooden pipes. Flutes are exported to Europe, America and other countries.
* [[Saharanpur]] is known all over India and abroad for its wood-carving items produced there.
* [[Varanasi]] Mubarakpur, [[Azamgarh]] is famous for its [[Banarasi]] [[sari]]s and silk. A ''Banarasi sari'' is an essential part of any marriage in the state.
* [[Gorakhpur]] is famous for its beautiful [[terracotta]] statues and handcraft cloths.
* [[Nizamabad, Uttar Pradesh|Nizamabad]] is famous for black pottery.


==Festivals==
=== Jewelry and metalwork ===
Religious practices are as much an integral part of everyday life, and a very public affair, as they are in the rest of India. Therefore, not surprisingly, many festivals are religious in origin, although several of them are celebrated irrespective of caste and creed.
The region is famous for its [[Jhumka (earring style)|Jhumka]] earrings and bangles from [[Firozabad]].


Among the most important [[Hindu festivals]] are [[Diwali]], [[Holi]] and [[Vijayadashami|Dussehra]], which are also observed with equal fervour by [[Jainism|Jains]]. Ten days of [[Ramlila]] takes place during the period of [[navratri]] and on the 10th day, epithet of [[Raavan]] is burnt with great fervour. [[Durga puja]] is also observed in many parts of the state during navratri. [[eid e milad un nabi]], [[Eid ul-Fitr|Eid]], [[Eid ul-Adha|Bakreed]] and Birthdate of [[Ali ibn Abi Talib|Ali ibn Abitalib]] are recognised official Muslim religious festivals. [[Moharram]], though the [[day of Ashura]] is official holiday but [[Shiites]] consider it as a day of mourning and not a festival as some people believe. [[Mahavir Jayanti]] is celebrated by Jains, [[Vesak|Buddha Jayanti]] by Buddhists, [[Guru Nanak Jayanti]] by Sikhs and Christmas by the Christians.<ref name="Indobase">{{cite web|url=http://festivals.indobase.com/index.html|title=18 Popular India Festivals|access-date=23 December 2007}}</ref> Other festivals include [[Ram navami]], [[Chhath]] puja, [[Krishna]]-[[Janmashtami]], [[Mahashivratri]], etc.
=== Other traditions ===
* [[Agra]], home since the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] era to Mughal crafts, including the ''[[Pietra Dura]]'', still practised today.
* [[Aligarh]] is known for its [[Manja (kite)|Manja]] and Surma ([[Kohl (cosmetics)|Kohl]]).
* [[Firozabad]] is known for its glasswork.
* [[Moradabad]] produces metal-ware, especially brass artefacts.
* [[Pilibhit]] produces wooden footwear (locally called [[Paduka]] or [[Khadaon]]) and also flutes made of wooden pipes which are exported to Europe, America and other countries.
* [[Saharanpur]] produces wood-carving items.
At Sarnath are also the [[Pillars of Ashoka]] and the [[Lion Capital of Ashoka]], archaeological artefacts with national significance.{{explain|date = February 2022}} [[Ghazipur]], 80 km from Varanasi, has Ganges Ghats and the Tomb of British potentate [[Lord Cornwallis]], maintained by the [[Archaeologic survey of India]].


== Tourism Place ==
== Gallery of tourist sites ==
* [[Prem Mandir, Vrindavan]], [[Uttar Pradesh]].
* [[ISKCON]] Temple, [[Vrindavan]] also known as [[Krishna Balaram Mandir]]  is one of the major ISKCON temples in the world. It is located in the holy city of Vrindavan.
<gallery widths="160px" heights="120px">
<gallery widths="160px" heights="120px">
Image:Kumbh Mela2001.JPG|[[Kumbh Mela]], at [[Allahabad]] is the largest gathering anywhere in the world.
Image:Kumbh Mela2001.JPG|[[Kumbh Mela]], at [[Prayagraj]] is the largest gathering anywhere in the world.
Image:MadanMohanmandir.jpg|Madan Mohan temple in [[Vrindavan]].
Image:MadanMohanmandir.jpg|Madan Mohan temple in [[Vrindavan]].
Image:JKTemple.JPG|[[JK Temple]] (RadhaKrishna Temple), [[Kanpur]]
Image:JKTemple.JPG|[[JK Temple]] (RadhaKrishna Temple), [[Kanpur]]
Line 130: Line 126:
Image:Bhool Bhulaiya Front View.jpg| The Bhool Bhulaiyya Front View, [[Lucknow]]
Image:Bhool Bhulaiya Front View.jpg| The Bhool Bhulaiyya Front View, [[Lucknow]]
Image:Maqbara with palm trees.JPG|[[Bahu Begum ka Maqbara]], [[Faizabad]].
Image:Maqbara with palm trees.JPG|[[Bahu Begum ka Maqbara]], [[Faizabad]].
Image:Ziarat Shareef.jpg |[[Kakrala]] is town where Sufi Shah Sharafat Miyan was born.
Image:Ziarat Shareef.jpg |[[Kakrala]] is the town where Sufi Shah Sharafat Miyan was born.
Image:Aligarh fort, Aligarh.jpg|[[Moat]] at the Aligarh Fort, [[Aligarh]].
Image:Aligarh fort, Aligarh.jpg|[[Moat]] at the Aligarh Fort, [[Aligarh]].
</gallery>
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 06:58, 9 November 2025


The Taj Mahal, a mausoleum in Uttar Pradesh, draws many visitors

The culture of Uttar Pradesh has been shaped by its ancient Hindu roots, medieval and early modern Muslim empires, and its place in the struggle for independence from colonial rule. Modern Uttar Pradesh citizens are largely rural Hindu agriculturalists, with a large minority of Muslims concentrated in its cities.[1]

Languages[edit | edit source]

Main article: Languages of Uttar Pradesh

A 2023 survey of the linguistic diversity of Uttar Pradesh found 101 different languages in the region out of the 122 languages found across India. Hindi and Urdu are collectively spoken by 80% of the population, and Bohjpuri is also widely spoken. Five varieties of Hindi are found in the region: Awadhi, Braj Bhasha, Bundeli, Bagheli and Kanauji.[2]

Standard Hindi was declared the official language of Uttar Pradesh in 1968 and is widely spoken in the region today. As of 2025 legislators in Uttar Pradesh may also communicate in four of the widely-spoken native languages Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Bundeli, and Braj Bhasha while in session.[3] Widely spoken among the Muslim population of Uttar Pradesh, Urdu was recognized as the second official language of the state in 1989, although the law limited its official use to specific contexts.[3][4]

Religion[edit | edit source]

Main article: Religion in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is home to important Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist holy sites and associated pilgrimages, including the holy city of Varanasi, the sacred Ganges river, and Mathura, regarded in some traditions as the birthplace of Krishna and Rama.

An estimated 400 million pilgrims arrived in Prayagraj (Allahabad) to take part in the 2025 Maha Kumbha Mela, making it the world's biggest religious gathering. The event takes place once every 12 years, but smaller gatherings occur more frequently.[5]

Another significant Hindu pilgrimage site, Varanasi, is strongly associated with death and reincarnation. Mourners bring the ashes of loved ones to be scattered here, and those near death make the pilgrimage in hopes of dying in what they regard as the home of Lord Shiva. Although a variety of funerary traditions take place in Varanasi, it's common to carry the dead down the ghats to bathe in the Ganges prior to a funeral pyre.[6]

Holi celebrations also draw visitors to Uttar Pradesh with unique local traditions like the Lathmar Holi. The Lathmar Holi celebrates a story of the courtship of Krishna and Radha in which Radha and her friend drove the god from Barsana with sticks. Today, the residents of Barsana recreate this event, as the women hurl sticks at the men participating in the ritual.[7]

Architecture[edit | edit source]

Main article: Architecture of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is home to multiple World Heritage Sites celebrating the historical architecture of the region, including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the nearby Fatehpur Sikri.[8]

  • The Agra Fort (also called the Red Fort of Agra) was the imperial city of the 16th century Mughal rulers and contains several palaces, audience halls, and mosques.[9]
  • Fatehpur Sikri ("The City of Victory") was built in three years on the order of the Mughal emperor Akbar between 1571 and 1573 to serve as the new capital city of the Mughal empire.[10]
  • The Taj Mahal is a 17th century mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.[11]

Dance and Music[edit | edit source]

Kathak
Clothing and dance indigenous to Uttar Pradesh.

During the Gupta and Harsh Vardhan eras, Uttar Pradesh was a centre for musical innovation. Swami Haridas was a musician who championed Hindustani Classical Music. Tansen, a musician in Mughal Emperor Akbar's court, was a disciple of Swami Haridas.

A popular form of classical dance in Northern India, Kathak originated in Uttar Pradesh in the 18th century as part of temple worship in Vrindavan and Mathura.[12] Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, was a patron and champion of Kathak. Today, the state is home to three prominent schools of this dance form, Lucknow Gharana, Jaipur Gharana and Banaras Gharana.

Music personalities including Naushad Ali, Talat Mehmood, Begum Akhtar, Anup Jalota, Shubha Mudgal, Bismillah Khan, Ravi Shankar, Kishan Maharaj, Vikash Maharaj, Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Gopal Shankar Misra, Siddheshwari Devi, Girija Devi and Sir Cliff Richard were originally from Uttar Pradesh.

The region's folk heritage includes songs called rasiya (especially popular in Braj), which celebrate the mythological love of Radha and Krishna. These songs are accompanied by large drums known as bumb and are performed at many festivals. Other folk dances or folk theater forms include Raslila, Swang, Ramlila (a dramatic enactment of the entire Ramayana), Nautanki, Naqal (mimicry) and Qawwali.

The Bhatkhande Music Institute is situated in Lucknow.

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Uttar Pradesh attracts large number of visitors, both national and international; with more than 71 million domestic tourists (in 2003) and almost 25% of the All-India foreign tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh, it is one of the top tourist destinations in India. There are two regions in the state where a majority of the tourists go, the Hindu pilgrimage circuit and the Agra circuit.

The pilgrimage circuit includes the most religiously prestigious of the cities considered holy in Hinduism on the banks of the Ganges and Yamuna, rivers which are also considered sacred: Varanasi, Ayodhya ( the birthplace of Rama), Mathura ( the birthplace of Krishna), Vrindavan (where Lord Krishna spent his childhood), and Allahabad (Prayagraj) (the confluence or 'holy-sangam' of the Ganges-Yamuna rivers).[citation needed]

Dayal Bagh in Agra is a modern-day temple and tourist site with lifelike marble sculptures.

Prem Mandir, Vrindavan, is called the "temple of love."

Protected areas[edit | edit source]

Some of the main natural protected areas in Uttar Pradesh are:-

Some areas require a special permit for non-Indians to visit.

Panoramic view of a part of the Fatehpur Sikri Palace

Dress[edit | edit source]

The people of Uttar Pradesh wear a variety of native- and Western-style dress. Traditional styles of dress include colourful draped garments – such as sari and ghagra choli for women and dhoti or lungi for men – and tailored clothes such as salwar kameez for women and kurta-pyjama for men. Men also often sport a headgear like topi or pagri. Sherwani is a more formal male dress and is frequently worn along with chooridar on festive occasions. European-style trousers and shirts are also common among men. Young adults are most commonly found in jeans and t-shirts.

Arts and crafts[edit | edit source]

A Pietra Dura marble table top (Agra)

Uttar Pradesh includes many historical and modern centres of artistic movements and crafts, and Allahabad (Prayagraj) is home to the National Institute of Art & Craft College.

Textile arts[edit | edit source]

Zardozi and chikankari are both traditions of embroidery that employ metal wire.

Banarasi saris are similarly notable for their use of metal thread in weaving the brocade.

Bhadohi produces carpets, a craft which dates back to the 16th century during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Akbar[13] Bhadohi carpets received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010,[14] and it is one of the highest revenue-generating districts of UP.

Pottery[edit | edit source]

Introduced by an Afghan military campaign over 500 years ago, Khurja pottery is often confused with a similar tradition in Jaipur, but received its Geographic Indication tag recognizing its uniqueness in 2015. Its artisans closely guard the secret of its distinctive blue glaze.[15]

Gorakhpur's animal sculptural tradition commonly depicts horses, elephants, camels, and oxen. It received its Geographic Indication tag in 2020.[16]

Characterized by its recognizing the metallic black finish and silvery etched designs inspired by medieval Bidriware, the origins of the black pottery of Nizamabad remain unclear. Local folklore generally places its origin in the Mughal period and attributes it to Gujarat artisans who immigrated to the Uttar Pradesh. The tradition received its Geographic Indication tag in 2015.[17]

Jewelry and metalwork[edit | edit source]

The region is famous for its Jhumka earrings and bangles from Firozabad.

Other traditions[edit | edit source]

  • Agra, home since the Mughal era to Mughal crafts, including the Pietra Dura, still practised today.
  • Aligarh is known for its Manja and Surma (Kohl).
  • Firozabad is known for its glasswork.
  • Moradabad produces metal-ware, especially brass artefacts.
  • Pilibhit produces wooden footwear (locally called Paduka or Khadaon) and also flutes made of wooden pipes which are exported to Europe, America and other countries.
  • Saharanpur produces wood-carving items.

At Sarnath are also the Pillars of Ashoka and the Lion Capital of Ashoka, archaeological artefacts with national significance.[further explanation needed] Ghazipur, 80 km from Varanasi, has Ganges Ghats and the Tomb of British potentate Lord Cornwallis, maintained by the Archaeologic survey of India.

Gallery of tourist sites[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Uttar Pradesh". MANAS. Retrieved 19 October 2025.
  2. ↑ Linguistic Survey of India - Uttar Pradesh. 1 July 2023.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "UP Legislators Can Now Speak in Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Bundelkhandi, Braj. Why Not Urdu, Asks Opposition". The Wire. Retrieved 18 October 2025.
  4. ↑ Experts, Disha (1 July 2020). Amazing Uttar Pradesh - General Knowledge for UPPSC, UPSSSC & other Competitive Exams. Disha Publications. ISBN 978-93-90486-72-4.
  5. ↑ Iyer, Aishwarya S. (13 January 2025). "One of the world's greatest religious spectacles is underway and the numbers are staggering". CNN. Retrieved 19 October 2025.
  6. ↑ "Varanasi - Worship - GCSE Religious Studies Revision - WJEC". BBC Bitesize. Retrieved 19 October 2025.
  7. ↑ Desk, India Today Web (21 March 2016). "What is Lathmar Holi? Why is it celebrated?". India Today. Retrieved 19 October 2025. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  8. ↑ "World Heritage List". Archaeological Survey of India.
  9. ↑ Centre, UNESCO World Heritage. "Agra Fort". UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 18 October 2025.
  10. ↑ Centre, UNESCO World Heritage. "Fatehpur Sikri". UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 18 October 2025.
  11. ↑ Centre, UNESCO World Heritage. "Taj Mahal". UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 18 October 2025.
  12. ↑ "Uttar Pradesh - Culture, Religion, Cuisine | Britannica". www.britannica.com. 8 November 2025. Retrieved 9 November 2025.
  13. ↑ "Famous for its handmade carpet industry". Tehelka Magazine. 31 January 2009. Archived from the original on 25 September 2011.
  14. ↑ Singh, Binay (9 September 2010). "Famed Bhadohi carpet gets GI tag". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 5 November 2012.
  15. ↑ "GI certificate to preserve uniqueness of Khurja pottery". The Times of India. 1 June 2015. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 17 October 2025.
  16. ↑ "NABARD - National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development". www.nabard.org. Retrieved 17 October 2025.
  17. ↑ "Forget the pot & kettle, black is the calling in Nizamabad". The Times of India. 24 April 2024. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 17 October 2025.
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