National Fruit of India : Mangoes

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The National Fruit of India - Mangoes

Mango has been declared as the national fruit of India. Mango - Mangifera indica is a cultural Icon, which is not just a fruit but a cultural symbol and is also referred to as the “king of fruits”. Its presence extends to religious rituals and celebrations, signifying abundance and prosperity.

India produces over 100 varieties of juicy mangoes, which can be green, orange, yellow, or red.

Mangoes have graced the pages of history and literature, with famous Indian poet Kalidasa and legendary figures like Alexander the Great and Chinese traveller Fa Hien attesting to their exquisite flavour. As the tale goes, Monarchs like Akhbar planted a vast mango orchard, leaving an indelible mark in Bihar’s Lakhi Bagh.

India is exclusively famous for producing a variety of mangoes, each promising delightful flavours, textures, and aromas.

According to the National Horticulture Board, about 1500 varieties of mangoes exist across the subcontinent. From India to the Caribbean and beyond, the mango—the national fruit of India—showcases the fruit’s incredible diversity. 

Mangoes are edible and are generally sweet, although the taste and texture of the flesh vary across cultivars. Some of the varieties of mangoes grown in Indian states include:

1. Vanraj Mangoes - Gujarat

2. Mankurad Mangoes - Goa

3. Raspuri Mangoes - Karnataka

4. Mallika Mangoes - All Over India

5. Amrapali Mangoes - All Over India

6. Badami Mangoes - North Karnataka

7. Kesar Mangoes - Junagadh, Gujarat

8. Totapuri Mangoes - Bangalore, Karnataka

9. Alphonso Mangoes - Ratnagiri, Maharashtra

10. Malgoa/Mulgoba Mangoes - Salem, Tamil Nadu

11. Dasheri Mangoes - Lucknow and Malihabad, Uttar Pradesh

12. Gulab Khaas Mangoes - Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal

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Significance of Mango - National Fruit of India

The mango, India’s national fruit, symbolises abundance, joy, and cultural significance. Known for its luscious sweetness and vibrant colours, it is cherished across the country and appears in everything from festive dishes to everyday snacks. 

Mangoes are prominent in Indian traditions, with numerous varieties celebrated for their unique flavours. This beloved fruit enriches India's cuisine and represents the nation’s diversity and unity, making it an iconic symbol of India’s rich agricultural heritage.

Mangoes are a powerful symbol of Indian culture, deeply rooted in the country’s traditions, mythology, and daily life. Revered as a divine fruit, mangoes are often associated with prosperity and fertility in ancient scriptures. They appear in various cultural rituals, festivals, and even as offerings to gods. The fruit’s distinct flavour and variety also represent the diversity of India itself. From being a key ingredient in traditional dishes to inspiring art, literature, and folk songs, mangoes encapsulate the essence of Indian heritage, celebrating both its agricultural richness and cultural vibrancy.

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Amazing Facts about Mango - National Fruit of India 

The mango, India’s national fruit, holds immense cultural, historical, and economic significance. Revered for its sweet, juicy taste and vibrant colour, it symbolises prosperity and is integral to Indian rituals, festivals, and folklore. 

Here are some of the fantastic facts about Mango - the National Fruit of India:

Fact - NO - 1: Mangoes, the national fruit of India, are not just delicious but also fascinating!

Fact - NO - 2: Mangoes were once so valued that they were used as royal gifts in ancient India!

Fact - NO - 3: Over 1,000 varieties of mangoes are grown across India, each with a unique flavour and texture. 

Fact - NO - 4: Mangoes are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fibre, making them a powerhouse of nutrition.

Fact - NO - 5: The mango tree is also known to live for over 100 years, continuing to bear fruit for generations. 

Fact - NO - 6: In Indian culture, the mango is considered a symbol of love, prosperity, and fertility, often featured in art and mythology. 

Fact - NO - 7: Mangoes are produced all over the world. However, only a few nations produce mango purée and/or juice for export. India produces over 20 million tonnes of mango yearly, making it the world’s largest producer.

Fact - NO - 8: According to the sources, the United Kingdom is the country’s largest customer, consuming roughly 16,000 tonnes yearly.

Fact - NO - 9: India produces distinct flavours and varieties of mangoes and adds some value additions. Still, most of the processing is for chutneys and pickles, which are popular both domestically and internationally.

Fact - NO - 10: India is the world's largest producer of mangoes. According to sources, India produces 50% of the world's mango production, and India's share is around 50 to 52% of world production, i.e. 10-12 million tonnes of mangoes, as against the world’s production of 23 million tonnes.

Historically, the mango has been celebrated in ancient texts and is considered a sacred fruit in Hindu mythology. Economically, India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, which plays a crucial role in the agricultural sector. The mango’s deep connection to Indian identity and its widespread use in cuisine further solidifies its status as a national treasure, representing the spirit of unity and diversity across the nation.

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