Indian city ranks among world's top 20 for art and culture in new report

An Indian city has secured a spot among the world's top 20 destinations for art and culture, according to a new global ranking released this week. The recognition places the city alongside renowned cultural hubs such as Paris, New York, and Tokyo, underscoring its growing influence on the international arts stage.

The ranking, compiled by a prominent travel and lifestyle publication, evaluated cities based on factors including the number of museums, art galleries, cultural festivals, street art, and public installations. The unnamed Indian city scored high for its rich historical heritage and contemporary creative output.

Ranking highlights

The list featured 20 cities from across the globe, with the Indian entry being the only one from South Asia. European capitals dominated the top spots, but the inclusion of an Indian city signals a shift in global cultural recognition beyond the traditional Western centres.

Officials from the city's tourism department have not yet commented on the ranking. However, local artists and cultural activists have expressed cautious optimism, hoping the recognition will translate into more government support and international attention for their work.

What makes the city stand out

The report specifically cited the city's thriving street art scene and its year-round calendar of festivals. From classical dance performances to modern art exhibitions, the city offers a mix of traditional and avant-garde experiences that attract both domestic and international visitors.

Its historic neighbourhoods, filled with colonial-era architecture and vibrant bazaars, have become open-air galleries for muralists and sculptors. Several independent galleries and artist-run spaces have also sprung up in recent years, contributing to a grassroots cultural revival.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite the accolade, the city faces significant challenges. Infrastructure constraints, limited funding for the arts, and a lack of formal training institutions are common complaints among local creatives. Many artists operate in precarious conditions, relying on small grants or crowdfunding to sustain their work.

Cultural experts argue that sustained investment is needed to maintain momentum. For now, the ranking serves as a morale booster and a reminder of the city's potential to become a leading cultural destination in Asia.

The report did not disclose the exact methodology or the full list of cities. It is expected that more details will be released in the coming weeks as the publication rolls out its complete findings.

What remains to be seen is whether this global nod will prompt policymakers to take concrete steps to nurture the arts ecosystem, or if it will remain just a headline.