History of Mangoes – The king of fruits
-Devashree Kulkarni
What comes to your mind if I ask you to think about summer? Most of us will surely think about vacations and mangoes. The summer vacations we spend at granny’s place while eating mangoes, our sticky hands, little giggling faces and sweetness of mangoes. But do you know from where mangoes came into existence? And how did they become the king of fruits? Well as mango is not just a fruit, it’s an emotion and holds significance in Indian households. Let’s get to know the King of fruits.
Origin of king of fruits:
The mango originated, in the foothills of the Himalayas of the southern Asia (eastern India, Burma and the Andaman Islands) bordering the Bay of Bengal, where it still grows wild in the hills of Assam and adjacent areas. Scientifically mangoes are known as ‘Magnifera Indica’ which means a great fruit bearer dated back in 4000 B.C in hindu scripture.
Starting from India, mangoes were used for trade throughout the world. Persian traders introduced mangoes in Middle East first and Portugese explorer carried it to Africa and South America. As a result, Mangoes spread over different region with different varieties as per the climatic conditions.
What’s in a name: Mango
The name mango derived with historic linguistic significance.The mango was first referred as ‘Amra’ which is a sanskrit word and mentioned in classical literature. In southern India especially in Tamil and Malayalam the fruit became well known as ‘Manga’.
Portugese trader called manga earlier when they first arrived in India. Later, the english term came in existence, i.e ‘Mango’ the name shows how cultures and languages blend to form a name.
Health Benefits of Mango:
Mangoes are called nutritional powerhouse as it contains maximum concentration of vitamins, minerals and protective antioxidants in every serving. A single mango can provides nearly 67% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C which helps in boosting immune system also aiding collagen production for healthy skin. It is a source of Vitamin A as well required for eye health, immune functioning & Folate (B9) which supports healthy cell division. Other than vitamins mango provides significant amounts of copper, potassium and magnesium. Also minerals that play a vital role in heart health by helping to manage blood pressure and relax blood vessels. This fruit contains anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer properties and support gut health and glycemic control.
Different Region, Different Identity:
One of the most unique aspect of mango it has different varities according to place and environment. Different regions produce unique varieties and known for its texture, flavour, name, aroma. Mangoes are incredibly diverse which is one of their most amazing features. The Alphonso mango is highly praised in Maharashtra for its sweetness, texture and flavour which makes it the most famous variety of mango in the world.
The Langda mangoes (also known as Banarasi Langra or Malda) from Varanasi famous for its highly aromatic nature and bright yellow-orange pulp while the Dasheri mango from Uttar Pradesh is well-known for its smooth pulp and unique scent and the Kesar mango from Gujarat is identifies for its saffron pulp while the Himsagar mango from West Bengal is valued for its luscious and fiberless flesh. The Banganapalli variety is known for its huge size, fibreless nature most popular in Andrapradesh.
A Symbol of Love, Prosperity and Tradition:
Mangoes held a significant place in Indian culture for centuries. Also associated with love, fertility, tradition and prosperity. In many traditions, mango leaves are used to decorate homes during festivals like Dusshera, Diwali, GudiPadwa (Hindu New Year) and many auspicious occasions, symbolizing purity and good fortune. Also mango pickle is something which is undoubtedly everyone’s favourite.
The mango tree itself is considered sacred and is frequently mentioned in religious texts and rituals. Religious literature and ceremonies often mention the mango tree which is revered.It is an necessary component in festivals and weddings and brings positivity and prosperity.
Mangoes also have a unique place in literature and mythology. Mango blooms are frequently connected to the entrance of spring and the flowering of love in classical poetry. Mangoes have long been employed as metaphors for beauty, fulfillment and desire by authors and poets.
In Mughal era, emperor Akbar planted thousands of mango trees in his kingdom. It was given a special importance to cultivate the fruit during it’s season.
Indeed, THE KING OF FRUITS:
The title ‘king of fruits’ is not given to the mango lightly. It is because the unmatched sweetness, aroma and cultural importance. The fruit mango appeals to all the senses making it a truly unique experience. Beyond its outward attributes, the mango’s royal rank is mostly determined by its lineage. It has been treasured and enjoyed by generations. Thus, it is indeed the king of fruits.
