National Fruit of India – Know Health Benefits

National Fruit of India: Mangoes are given the title of the national fruit. They are often referred to as the “King of Fruits”. Ripe mangoes are super tasty and considered the best fruit in the country. People use the unripe ones to make spicy pickles, which are a big part of Indian food. There are more than 100 types of mangoes in India, coming in green, orange, yellow, and red colors. They’re rich in Vitamins A, C, and D. Mangoes have been popular for a very long time—famous poet Kalidasa and even Alexander the Great loved their delicious flavor. So, in India, mangoes are not just fruits, they’re a big part of the culture.

In this article, we will look into the varieties, significance, producers, and health benefits of mango.

Let’s start.

What is Mango?

1. The mango is more than simply a fruit, it is a cultural emblem in Indian customs.
2. It is sometimes referred to as the “king of fruits” in appreciation of its unique status and may be found in mythology, folklore, and literature.
3. The mango has religious importance beyond daily life since it is associated with prosperity and abundance in rites and festivities.
4. India distributes fresh mangoes in a well-organized manner outside of this season, and the nation still only turns around 7% of its harvest into juices and concentrated or single-strength purées.
5. The nation can produce about 700,000 tonnes of finished goods, but its yearly production is only between 450,000 and 500,000 tonnes.

Why is Mango the National Fruit of India?

Mangoes are often referred to as the “King of Fruits”. Ripe mangoes are super tasty and considered the best fruit in the country. Due to this popularity and abundance of liking all over the nation, Mangoes are considered to be the National Fruit of India.

Significance of the National Fruit of India

Mango, scientifically known as Mangifera indica and fondly called the King of Fruits, holds the title of India’s national fruit. Its delightful aroma and delicious flavors have enchanted people worldwide for a very long time. Being the national fruit of India, mango symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and wealth, contributing to the country’s image.

The Abundant Varieties of Mango Available in India

There are abundant varieties of Mangoes that can be found in India. Some of them include:

Alphonso
Kesar
Langra
Chaunsa
Dasheri
Tommy Atkins
Haden
Ataulfo
Kent
Francis

The Leading Producers of Mangoes are India

India is the largest producer of mango in the world. India produces around 20 million tonnes of mango annually and produces 40.48% of the total world mango production. 

• Mangoes are grown worldwide, but only a few countries export mango purée and juice.
• A decade ago, India produced around 10-11 million tonnes, showing a consistent increase in mango production.
• The majority of India’s mango output is for the fresh market due to the fruit’s short storage life.
• Mangoes are available for most of the year, with a peak demand during the new season around mid-year.
• India engages in some processing, mainly for chutneys and pickles, which are popular nationally and internationally.
• The United Kingdom is the largest consumer of Indian mangoes, importing approximately 16,000 tonnes annually.
• Frozen mango is also exported for pickle production, such as the Patak brand in the United Kingdom.
• Despite organized fresh mango distribution, only about 7% of India’s mangoes are processed into juices and purées.
• India’s processing capability is approximately 700,000 tonnes, but the actual output is around 450,000-500,000 tonnes per year.

Historical and Literacy Acknowledgments

Mangoes have been featured in literature and history, with renowned Chinese travellers, legendary individuals, respected monarchs and notable Indian poets attesting to it’s delicious flavour.

• Mangoes are celebrated in history and literature, with renowned Indian poet Kalidasa, Alexander the Great, and Chinese traveler Fa Hien praising their delicious taste.
• Monarchs like Akbar left a lasting legacy by planting a huge mango orchard in Lakhi Bagh, Bihar, with a tale that mentions 100,000 mango trees being planted by him.

References in Hindu Mythology for Mango

Mango trees are seen by Hindus as a representation of Prajapati, the creator god. The Skanda Purana states that the Santanaka (vata), the Mango tree, and the Kal-pavrksa -Parijata tree sprang from the sea when the Gods and devils churned it for nectar. Mango vrata is described in the Matsya Purana.

International Mango Festival

• The International Mango Festival takes place annually in Delhi, celebrating India’s National Fruit.
• The festival features a variety of traditional Indian mango types and the latest sweet, healthy, and fast-growing varieties.
• Visitors can taste different mango flavors, buy mango trees for their gardens, and gain insights into mango cultivation.
• Mangoes, being a summer fruit, might have a large, non-edible seed that has potential uses in creating various medications.

Health Benefits and Global Impact

Mangoes are not only tasty, they are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. India is the world’s greatest mango grower, producing more than 20 million tonnes of mangos yearly. India’s mango history is enhanced by exports to nations such as the United Kingdom and the creation of pickles and chutneys, despite the minimum processing involved.

Conclusion

In India, mangoes are more than simply a tasty fruit. They are a fundamental part of the nation’s customs and culture. Mangoes are cherished by the populace for a variety of reasons, including their status as the “King of Fruits” and their indispensable part in religious rituals. The diversity and significance of this fruit are further highlighted by the Delhi International Mango Festival. The flavour and economic significance of mangoes are reflected in India’s prominent position as the world’s top grower and exporter of the fruit. Mangoes are a rare symbol of prosperity, abundance, and a rich cultural heritage and are more than just a staple of the country’s agricultural landscape.

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FAQs on National Fruit of India

What is the national fruit of India explain?

Mango is India’s national fruit. They are often regarded as the “King of Fruits” due to their sweet taste and popularity.

What is the significance of mangoes in Indian culture?

Mangoes hold a special place in Indian culture and are often referred to as the “King of Fruits.” They are woven into Indian mythology, folklore and literature, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Mangoes are also used in religious rituals and celebrations.

What are the 17 symbols of India?

The 17 symbols of India include Mango, Ganga, Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Banyan, Tiranga, Jana Gana Mana, Saka Calendar, Vande Mataram, National Emblem of India, Ganges River Dolphin, Indian Peacock, Indian Rupee, King Cobra, Indian Elephant, Lotus, Pumpkin and National Pledge.

Which are the major mango producing states in India?

The major mango producing states in India are:

1. Andhra Pradesh
2. Uttar Pradesh
3. Karnataka
4. Bihar
5. Gujarat
6. Tamil Nadu

How many varieties of mangoes are there in India?

India boasts a wide variety of mangoes, each with its unique flavour, texture and aroma. Some popular mango varieties in India include Alphonso, Kesar, Langra, Chaunsa, Dasheri and more.