Tezzbuzz Desk- As soon as the summer season arrives, the most awaited fruit is mango. This fruit, full of taste, aroma and sweetness, is very popular not only in India but in many countries of the world. This is the reason why National Mango Day is celebrated every year on 22 July. On this day people are made aware about the history of mango, its different varieties and nutritional properties.
India is considered to be the largest producer of mangoes. Almost half of the world’s total mango production is grown in India alone. Many varieties like Dussehri, Alphonso, Kesar, Himsagar, Chausa and Langra are very popular across the country. Among these, the names of Chausa and Langra mangoes always remain a reason for people’s curiosity.
According to historians, mango cultivation started in South Asia and its history in India is considered to be about 5 thousand years old. This fruit has been an important part of Indian culture and cuisine since ancient times. It is believed that mango was first cultivated in north-east India. With time it spread to different parts of the country. Later Portuguese traders brought it to other countries of the world, where its popularity increased rapidly.
Mango is considered the national fruit of India. The biggest reason behind this is its widespread cultivation and its special identity in Indian culture. Different varieties of mangoes are grown in almost every state of the country. Dussehri of Uttar Pradesh, Jardalu of Bihar, Alphonso of Maharashtra, Kesar of Gujarat, Himsagar of West Bengal and Banganapalli of Andhra Pradesh have their special identity not only in the country but also in foreign countries. Kannur district of Kerala has got special recognition for its diverse species of mango.
Langra mango is one of the most popular varieties of North India. Many stories are popular regarding its name. According to folklore, the person who first cultivated this variety was physically handicapped. When people started asking about this mango, it started being called “Langra Mango” by linking it to the identity of that farmer. Although the historical evidence of this story is not clear, this story is still quite famous among the people.
The name of Chausa mango is linked to history. It is said that in 1539, Shershah Suri defeated the Mughal emperor Humayun in a battle in the Chausa region of Bihar. The special mango that was tasted in the celebration organized after the victory came to be called “Chausa” after the name of the same place. Today Chausa mango is very much liked across the country for its sweetness, juice and aroma.
Mango is not only delicious but also an important part of Indian traditions. Use of mango leaves in religious rituals is considered auspicious. At the same time, in summer, shakes, ice cream, pickles, panna and sweets made from mango are the first choice of the people.
The objective of National Mango Day is also to convey the heritage, diversity and importance of this special fruit to the new generation. This is why mango is called the king of fruits and its popularity continues even today.
