2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mango festival celebrates diverse varieties and cultural heritage in new delhi
New Delhi: The capital's much-awaited celebration of the king of fruits—the 34th Mango Festival—was inaugurated by chief minister Rekha Gupta on Friday at Thyagaraj Stadium. Organised by Delhi tourism, the event brought together mango growers, food lovers, and cultural enthusiasts under one roof.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by tourism minister Kapil Mishra, chief secretary Dharmendra, MLA Neeraj Basoya, and Delhi tourism and transportation development corporation's managing director Niharika Rai, among others.
Held annually since 1987, the Mango Festival is a tribute to India's most beloved fruit. This year, the event features a vibrant exhibition of over 400 mango varieties—from the tiny Husnara to the papaya-sized Haathijhool.
Other exotic names like Rataul, Ramkela, Mallika, Amrapali, Litchi, and Fazli are also drawing attention.
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The festival provides a platform for farmers, exporters, and research institutions to showcase their produce and mango-based products. Key participants this year include ICAR-IARI Pusa, GB Pant University, Bihar Agricultural University, and the Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, among others.
Reminiscing about her childhood memories associated with mangoes, CM Gupta lauded the tourism department's efforts in organising the annual showcase. "Mangoes are not just fruits, they're part of our tradition and collective nostalgia," she said while unveiling the official mascot of the festival. She urged Delhiites to visit the stadium and enjoy the festivities.
India, home to nearly 1,000 of the world's 1,500 mango varieties, produces up to 64% of the global mango supply.
Uttar Pradesh alone contributes over 25%, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
There are more than 400 varieties of mango on display this year. To attract visitors, mango-eating competitions (for both men and women), sale of fresh mangoes and mango-based products, cultural performances and traditional dances, and kids' zones, quizzes, and selfie spots have been planned by the tourism department.
The festival is open to the public until June 29, from 11 am to 9 pm daily. Delhi Tourism is running a free shuttle service from INA Metro Station to ensure convenient access for visitors.
