EXPLORING THE GASTRONOMIC LEGACY OF BRAJ REGIONAL CUISINE AND ITS IMPACT ON TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

This study investigates the impact of Braj regional cuisine on tourism development, utilizing a quantitative research methodology. The research aims to understand how Braj cuisine, deeply rooted in the region's cultural and historical context, influences tourism dynamics. A structured survey was administered to 520 respondents, including 400 tourists and 120 tourism stakeholders from key locations within the Braj region, such as Mathura and Vrindavan. The survey assessed participants' perceptions of Braj cuisine, its appeal, and its role in enhancing the tourism experience. Additionally, tourism statistics from regional authorities were analyzed to identify trends and correlations related to culinary tourism. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the survey data, while inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analyses, were employed to explore the relationships between Braj cuisine and tourism metrics. The findings suggest a significant positive correlation between the popularity of Braj cuisine and increased tourist satisfaction and visitation rates. Tourism stakeholders also recognized the potential of Braj cuisine to enhance the region’s tourism appeal and contribute to economic growth. However, challenges such as the need for sustainable practices and maintaining culinary authenticity were also highlighted. The study concludes that Braj cuisine plays a crucial role in shaping the region's tourism landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges for stakeholders. By leveraging the unique culinary heritage of Braj, tourism development in the region can be significantly enhanced, provided that sustainability and cultural preservation are prioritized.