Kernel of autumn is back with a bang

CHANDIGARH: As you bid adieu to your favourite variety of mango, it’s time to bask in the winter glory of apples, which have inspired many an adam to follow his gourmet instincts. With the royal variety having already arrived in local markets from HP’s fruit bowl— Kinnaur, apple enthusiasts now eagerly await other juicy varieties from Kashmir, which are known for their distinctive taste.Royal and Golden apples from Shimla and Kullu & Manali are likely to rule for more weeks.
“With apple growers from Kinnaur, Kashmir and Shimla claiming a bumper production, the fruit is likely to dominate the market for most of the season,” said a dealer in Sector-26 fruit and vegetable market. “As compared to last year, fruit production from Kashmir, Kinnaur and Shimla has doubled this time. That’s why apple has hit the market 10 days earlier than its usual arrival,” said Madan, another owner from Sector-26 market.
Even as Kinnaur varieties are your best buy at the moment, assorted apples from Kashmir are likely to rule the market soon. “Royal apple from Kinnaur is in high demand. We are doing brisk business and selling 20-25 kg per day against 15-20 kg last year. However, high prices are keeping Chinese and American varieties out of common man’s reach,” said Raju, another wholesaler.
No matter what the pundits say, apple lovers are welcoming autumn with a bang. Thirty-five-year-old Radhika Khanna, a homemaker, said, “My family loves apples. I am purchasing it in bulk as I will take it to my maternal home in Delhi.”