Analyzing possibilities of promoting food culture of Rajasthan through food museum: A view point

The relation between food and human is inseparable. The evolution of food is as old as human civilization. Food practices or food culture is one of the parameter to decide the richness of any region or locality. From ancient to contemporary times, food played a major role in the evolution of civilization and displaying foodrelated objects and artifacts is common in natural and history museums. As Lucy Long (American ethnologist) has defined food culture as “the practices, attitudes, and beliefs as well as the networks and institutions surrounding the production, distribution, and consumption of food”. Every region or nation is always proud of their food culture. Therefore they always look forward to preserve its food culture, practices and food heritage. Presently there are around 81 food museums in the world which acquaint with history, civilization and many modern approaches about food that helps the human to sustain their life. The food tourist, researchers, practitioners are always enthusiast and keen about such knowledge and try to preserve it for the generations to come. Food museums have frequently engaged with food heritage and culinary traditions. The present study tries to create a view point with exploring the possibilities of promoting food culture of Rajasthan through food museum, as Rajasthan is the one famous destination in the itinerary list of the tourists and it’s known for its vibrant food culture and heritage. Authors have utilized conceptual with review approach of methodology. This article will possibly add the new knowledge for advocating the strategies for promoting and sustaining the rich and diminishing food heritage of the state. This study showcases the modified model of food museum, its operation and approaches of food culture promotion. Moreover, the study would be beneficial for the policymaker to utilize literature and findings in setting up the food museum in the future and also to assess its characteristics, tasks, audience and modes of engagement; as such there are no food museums in the state.