National Fruit of India – Mango
Mango (Mangifera Indica) is the National fruit of India. Mango is one of the most widely grown fruits of the tropical countries. In India, mango is cultivated almost in all parts, with the exception of hilly areas. Mango is a rich source of Vitamins A, C and D. In India, we have hundreds of varieties of mangoes. They are of different sizes, shapes and colors. Mangoes have been cultivated in India since time immemorial. Even in our mythology and history there are stories of mangoes- the famous Indian poet Kalidasa sang its praise. Alexander the great, along with Hieun Tsang savored the taste of mangoes. The great Mughal king, Akbar is said to have planted over 100,000 mango trees in Darbhanga (modern Bihar). The mango is eaten ripe and is also used for pickles.
Mango finds a mentioned in the Indian history as well. In fact, the famous poet Kalidasa is known to have sung its praises. Apart from that, ancient Greek King Alexander the Great and Chinese pilgrim Hieun Tsang have been said to have savored its taste.
The great Moghul emperor Akabar has been known to plant as many as 100,000 mango trees in Lakhi Bagh in Darbhanga, Bihar. Now, the National Fruit of India, International Mango Festival is now conducted in Delhi every year that displays the wide range of traditionally favorite Indian varieties along with the latest discoveries of mango varieties that are tasty, healthy and quick to bear fruits. It allows the visitors to taste the different flavors of the mangoes, buy a tree for your fruit garden and impart knowledge about cultivating mangoes. This summer fruit may or may not have one big large seed that is not edible but are usable in making different medicines.