- Naturally ripened mangoes to be displayed; Noor Jahan variety to be key attraction
Bhopal: Mango lovers in Bhopal have a special treat this summer. The ‘State Level Mango Festival 8.0’ organized by NABARD is set to begin from June 10 at the NABARD Regional Office Complex in Bittan Market. The five-day event, running till June 14, will showcase over 15 varieties of naturally ripened, chemical-free mangoes grown by tribal farmers from various districts of Madhya Pradesh.
This festival not only promotes healthy and natural produce but also highlights the efforts of tribal communities in mango cultivation. Farmers from across the state will present unique and indigenous varieties of mangoes, offering a rare opportunity to taste and purchase them directly.
A major attraction this year is the Noor Jahan mango, available for sale for the first time. Earlier limited to exhibitions, this rare mango is grown only on 10 trees in Kattiwada region of Alirajpur district. Priced at Rs 2,000 per kg, each mango weighs over 1.1 kg. Due to its large size and weight, its cultivation is quite challenging, especially because it can fall even with a light breeze.
Sundarja mango is ideal for diabetic patients
Another highlight is the GI-tagged Sundarja mango from Govindgarh in Rewa district. Fiber-free and with sugar content less than 5%, it is ideal for diabetic patients. Its aroma, sweetness, and quality make it highly sought after.
Several other varieties will also be showcased, including Mallika, which is a sweet-sour mango formed by grafting Neelam and Dussehri. Rare in Bhopal, commonly found in Shahdol.
Amrapali is a cross of Neelam and Mallika, popular in UP and parts of Shahdol, while Malda is a small-seeded with 20% more pulp, entirely sweet, and carries hints of Dussehri and Kesar.
Kesar, Dussehri, Langra, Chaunsa, Totapuri, Narangi, Sindoori, and Rajapuri, among others, will also be on display.
NABARD Chief General Manager C. Sarasvi stated that the festival aims to empower tribal families economically, enhance their livelihoods, and develop their marketing skills. The event reflects the theme “Wadi se thali tak” — from orchard to plate.
