‘Maha’ utsav of mangoes: Over 800 varieties spread aroma, cheers among connoisseurs

Lucknow: The three-day Uttar Pradesh Mango Mahotsav 2025 showcased an impressive collection of 800 mango varieties, celebrating India's beloved fruit in grand style.The exhibition featured 600 varieties native to UP, with orchardists from various districts displaying their unique regional offerings. The showcase included GI-tagged Dussehri from Malihabad, Banarasi Langda, Retaul from Baghpat, Bihar's Gulab Khas and international varieties like Tommy Atkins from US and India-developed Arunika.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the event, stating: "This Mango Mahotsav, with over 801 varieties on display, is a testament to Uttar Pradesh's rich agricultural tradition and the innovation driving our farmers forward. The govt is committed to promoting GI-tagged produce on global platforms and strengthening farmer livelihoods."Notable exhibits included the 'Yogi Mango' and 'Modi Mango'. Padma Bhushan recipient Haji Kaleemullah, known as the 'Mango Man', presented the one-kilogram Yogi Mango, distinguished by its soft pulp and minimal seed."This mango is dedicated to CM Yogi Adityanath for his inspiring work in reclaiming govt lands from mafias," Kaleemullah said.His previous creations include mangoes named after various politicians, and his distinctive 'Anarkali' mango featuring dual peels and flavours. His achievement of grafting over 300 varieties on one tree has earned national acclaim. "Mango is not just about taste, it's medicine. Some varieties help control diabetes," he noted.Farmer Upendra Kumar from Kaushambi presented the indigenous 'Modi Mango', a 500-gram aromatic variety. "Foreign mangoes lack the depth of taste found in Indian varieties," he said, advocating for preservation of rare varieties like 'Haathi Jhoom' and 'Dukhman Mango'.The festival offered diverse mango delicacies including aam panna, aam ras, fresh slices, squashes and ice creams. Pickle stalls featured regional varieties from Kerala, Rajasthan, and Bengal's aamsotto.Visitors benefited from practical demonstrations of grafting techniques, sapling sales and orchard management education.ICAR-CISH, Rehmankhera, Kakori, displayed 152 Indian varieties, 18 exotic imports and 50 experimental hybrids. Principal scientist Ashish Yadav highlighted their Metwash technology and climate-resilient hybrids. The festivities concluded with an evening cultural programme featuring Bhojpuri performer Pawan Kumar, who entertained the audience with popular songs.