The Golden Delight: Mango Season in India and the Pride of Ratnagiri
Mango season in India is nothing short of a festival. It is a time when markets fill with beautiful colors of yellow, orange, and green. Among the many types of mangoes grown in India, the Alphonso mango stands out as a favorite. This special variety comes from the coastal town of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, a district well-known for its mango production.
People often call the Alphonso mango the “King of Mangoes.” It is a tropical fruit loved in India and around the world. With its rich golden-yellow color, smooth skin, and non-fibrous pulp, this mango has a sweet and tangy flavor and a fruity aroma that makes it truly special.
Why Mango Season in India is Special
India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world, with many mango varieties grown across the country. Popular varieties include Alphonso, Himsagar, Kesar, and Banganapalli. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh are major contributors to mango production.
Mangoes grown in which season? The answer is the tropical summer months. The mango season months are usually from March to June, which is when the famous Alphonso mangoes arrive.
During mango season, local markets come alive with vendors selling fresh mangoes, and homes are filled with the aroma of mango-based dishes. Families gather to enjoy traditional recipes, and mango lovers often compete to find the sweetest and juiciest fruit of the year.
The season also sees mango festivals in several parts of the country, celebrating the cultural and culinary significance of this tropical delight. In India, mangoes are more than just a fruit. They are a symbol of summer, celebrated in festivals and used in countless recipes.
Drinks like aam panna and desserts such as aamras and mango kulfi are summer favorites. Mango chutney, a tangy and spicy condiment, is another way people enjoy this versatile fruit.
The Journey of Mangoes: From Flowering to Packing
Mango cultivation follows a detailed and traditional process. The journey begins with the flowering phase, which usually takes place during the winter months. Mango trees produce small, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators like bees. This ensures the formation of fruit-bearing blooms.
Once the flowers are pollinated, small green mangoes begin to develop. Over the next several weeks, these fruits grow and ripen under the watchful care of farmers. The ripening process is critical, as the mangoes need the perfect balance of sunshine and shade to achieve their sweet and tangy flavor.
When the mangoes reach maturity, farmers carefully hand-pluck them from the trees to avoid damage. They use long poles with a net or basket attached to harvest the fruit from taller branches. This traditional method ensures that the mangoes remain intact and retain their natural quality.
After harvesting, workers sort the mangoes based on size, color, and ripeness. The sorted mangoes are then packed into wooden petis (crates), a method that has been used for generations. These crates provide proper ventilation and protection, ensuring the mangoes stay fresh during transport. The packed crates are sent to markets across India and even exported worldwide.
What Makes Ratnagiri Alphonso Mango Special?
- Unique Geography: Ratnagiri is located near the Arabian Sea. The climate and soil in this region are ideal for growing Alphonso mangoes. This gives them a distinct taste and aroma.
- Traditional Farming: Farmers in Ratnagiri use traditional methods passed down through generations. These methods help produce high-quality mangoes.
- GI Tag: The Alphonso mango from Ratnagiri has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This proves its authenticity and ensures that only mangoes from this region can be called “Ratnagiri Alphonso.”
How to Enjoy Alphonso Mangoes
Alphonso mangoes are loved for their versatility. Here are some popular ways to enjoy them:
- Aamras: This is a thick mango puree that tastes delicious with puris or chapatis.
- Mango Lassi: A sweet and refreshing drink made with mango pulp and yogurt.
- Desserts: Alphonso mangoes are used in cakes, puddings, and traditional sweets like shrikhand.
- Smoothies and Salads: Adding Alphonso mango to smoothies or salads gives them a tropical twist.
- Mango Chutney: A flavorful condiment made with ripe or raw mangoes.
Tips for Buying and Storing Alphonso Mangoes
- Buy Authentic: To get the best quality, look for Alphonso mangoes that are labeled as coming from Ratnagiri.
- Check Ripeness: A ripe Alphonso mango has a vibrant golden color and a sweet, fruity aroma.
- Store Properly: Keep unripe mangoes at room temperature until they ripen. Once ripe, store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh longer.
A Global Favorite
The Alphonso mango is not just popular in India. It is exported to many countries, including the USA, UAE, and Europe. Its luxurious taste and aroma make it a favorite among chefs and food lovers around the world. During mango season, it is also a popular choice for gifting.
Mango Season in Different States
India has many regions that contribute to its rich mango culture. States like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh produce several varieties of mangoes besides Alphonso. In these states, the mango season months bring a burst of flavors to local markets.
Each region has its unique recipes and ways of enjoying mangoes, from pickles to curries and desserts. In Tamil Nadu, mangoes like Neelam and Rumani are famous, while Uttar Pradesh boasts the popular Dasheri mango. Andhra Pradesh is known for its Banganapalli mangoes, celebrated for their rich sweetness.
These regional varieties add diversity to the mango season, ensuring there’s a flavor for everyone to enjoy.
Interesting Facts About Mangoes
- Mangoes are one of the oldest cultivated fruits, with a history dating back over 4,000 years.
- India grows over 1,500 varieties of mangoes, but only about 20 are widely available.
- The mango tree is considered sacred in Indian culture and is often associated with prosperity.
Health Benefits of Mangoes
Mangoes are not just delicious; they are also nutritious. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which are good for the skin and immune system. Mangoes also contain dietary fiber and antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for summer.
Consuming mangoes in moderation can help improve digestion, provide energy, and even enhance your mood. Their natural sugars make them a great alternative to processed snacks during hot summer days.
Conclusion
Mango season in India is a time of celebration. Among all the mango varieties, the Alphonso mango from Ratnagiri stands out as the crown jewel. Whether you eat it fresh, turn it into a dessert, or use it in savory dishes like mango chutney, this golden fruit captures the true essence of Indian summers.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the "King of Mangoes" during the mango season months. This tropical delight will leave you wanting more every time!