Varanasi: The flavours that have long been woven into Kashi’s cultural fabric are now set to travel far beyond its famed ghats and lanes. From the unmistakable Banarasi paan to the delicate launglata and the tricolour-hued tiranga barfi, Varanasi’s culinary heritage will get a global showcase under the Uttar Pradesh govt’s “One District One Cuisine” initiative.For the first time, a dedicated “One District One Cuisine” food court will be set up at the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2026, scheduled to be held in Greater Noida from Sept 25 to 29. Traditional dishes from districts across the state will be presented to visitors, buyers and entrepreneurs from India and abroad.From Varanasi, Banarasi paan, launglata and the iconic tiranga barfi have been selected for the trade show. These products represent the city’s rich food identity and are expected to create new business opportunities for local entrepreneurs while promoting Kashi’s culinary culture globally.Deputy commissioner industries Abhishek Priyadarshi said four entrepreneurs from Varanasi have been selected under the ODOP scheme to participate in the event. These include two entrepreneurs associated with tiranga barfi, one with Banarasi paan and one with launglata. Each entrepreneur will be accompanied by one assistant.The selected participants will be provided free stalls at the venue, where they will display and sell their products. The initiative aims to help local products reach wider markets and connect entrepreneurs with major business opportunities. Visitors and buyers will also be able to taste the products and interact directly with the makers.Paan trader Deepak Gupta said the grandeur of Banarasi paan will be on display at the trade show. He expressed confidence that the international platform will help attract orders from event companies and traders, boosting demand for Banarasi paan in India and overseas.Sweets trader Anuj Yadav said the govt has given local businessmen an international platform to expand their reach. He said visitors from India and abroad will get an opportunity to taste Varanasi’s famous launglata, opening new possibilities for business growth.Tiranga barfi trader Chandrabali Yadav said the sweet is both a symbol of national pride and an identity of Banaras. He said the government’s support will help promote Banarasi sweets and strengthen local businesses.Another tiranga barfi trader, Rajiv Singh, said this is the first time he has received an opportunity to participate in such a major event. He called it an important platform for local entrepreneurs to expand their business and connect with new markets.
