Noorjahan Mango: Why it's called the Queen of Mangoes, sold at Rs 1000 a piece and its connection with Afghanistan

Mango, the ultimate summer fruit also known as the King of Fruits, is known for its aroma, juicy flavours, and vibrant colour. While we all have heard of different varieties of mangoes including Maldah, Langda, Dashehri, Hapus and more, have you ever heard of a mango variety named after a Mughal queen? Yes, you read it right! There exists a mango that is also called the Queen of Mangoes. Scroll down to read the details.

Noorjahan, a rare mango variety from Katthiwada, Alirajpur district, Madhya Pradesh, is also called the Queen of Mangoes. It is said to be named after the queen Noor Jahan and is believed to have originated in Afghanistan.

According to food historians, this mango is believed to be an import from Afghanistan which made its way to this region via Gujarat. Although this might be its horticultural journey, there are no records of the Noorjahan mango varietal in either Afghanistan or Gujarat anymore and local farmers believe they are the only growers of this fruit. Some experts also say that the tree itself is believed to have historical roots, often associated (though not definitively proven) with the Mughal era and named after Empress Noor Jahan.

It is rumored to be the world's largest mango with a distinct place of origin and saffron-like flavour and delicate skin. However, its limited numbers restrict its consumption largely to Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring Gujarat. According to experts, each mango can weigh up to 2.5-3.5kg and extend upto a foot in size and the most interesting thing is, that this tree is rather small growing up to a maximum height of 12 feet. As per market reports, prics for this mango can go up to Rs 1000 for a single piece. According to growers, it is the unique climate, soil, and weather conditions of Madhya Pradesh that contribute to its exceptional size and quality. This unique mango is said to have deep yellow to saffron-colored skin, with smooth and less fibrous, making it pleasant to eat. Also, it is soft and juicy, with a creamy mouthfeel, making it a favourite among all age groups. As per experts, its the size of the fruit makes it most unique and is often marked for a conversation.

According to a The Better India report, Noorjahan mango farming started in Noorjahan Mango Farms in Katthiwada, managed by Shivraj Singh Jadav. The report states that Shivraj's father started this farm by planting this variety from a graft, back in 1965. The mango variety gained national attention when Shivraj's father was featured on national television between 1978 and 1981.