Come summer and we’ve all enjoyed biting into the juicy pulp of ripe mangoes, a joy that is unmatched and beyond words can describe! Consumed worldwide, mangoes are said to be the king of fruits and are celebrated by making their presence felt in many traditional dishes. In 1987, when the Horticulture Board of India had the idea to dedicate a day in honour of the national fruit, the annual tradition brought about festivals and exhibitions that displayed the greatness of this fruit at its peak.
Cultivated around 5,000 years ago, folklore has it that Lord Buddha was given a mango orchard so that he could take rest under the shade of these trees. In 300-400 AD, the seeds of the mango travelled from Asia to the Middle East, East Africa and South America, where the fruit has since gained popularity. Considered to be a symbol of love and friendship, parts of the mango tree like the leaves, bark, stems and wood are utilised for many cultural purposes in the country. Here are seven fascinating facts about the mango that you must know.
Varieties
There are over 1,000 different varieties of mangoes grown around the world. Some popular varieties include Alphonso, Tommy Atkins, Kent, Haden, and Keitt. Mangoes are also the national fruit of India, Pakistan and Philippines, reflecting their cultural significance in these countries.
Mango Tree
Mango trees can grow up to 100 feet in height, making them one of the tallest types fruit trees in the world. They can live for several centuries, with some trees continuing to bear fruit for over 300 years. The leaves from mango trees have been known to possess several medicinal properties as well as the trees can help mitigate climate change.
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Nutritional Powerhouse
Mangoes are not only delicious but also highly nutritious, as they are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fibre, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Rich in polyphenols, including mangoes in one’s diet has immunity-boosting and antioxidant properties.
Indigenous To America
Mangoes were introduced to the Americas by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century when they were brought to Brazil, from where the fruit spread throughout the continent. In the current age, a significant majority of the mangoes sold in the United States come from Peru, Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala and Haiti.
Mango Festival
In various mango-growing regions around the world, mango festivals are celebrated to honour this delicious fruit. These festivals often feature mango tastings, cultural events, and competitions for the best mango varieties. Apart from the International Mango Festival held in Delhi each year, places like Miami and the Philippines also host extravagant events surrounding the fruit.
Leaves In Rituals
In some cultures, like our own, mango leaves hold religious significance. Used in various ceremonies – including weddings and festivals, the leaves symbolize prosperity and good luck. As the largest producers of the fruit, along with China and Thailand, mango leaves are integral to Hindu religious traditions and feature prominently during auspicious settings.
The Silk Industry
Mango leaves are also important to the silk industry. Silkworms are often fed with mango leaves, which can result in silk with a golden hue, known as ‘muga silk’, produced primarily in Assam and Bihar, featuring design motifs that are specific to the region. Mango silk, apart from being used to make garments, can also be used for fabrics that constitute bed coverings, pillow covers and curtains.