Malihabad is a dusty hamlet with the iconic dussehri mangoes. While the village may seem ordinary at first glance, it holds a delectable secret that has captured the hearts of millions
Mango season is almost over and you may have to wait till next year to get the delicious mangoes from India and one that I strongly recommend is Dussehri from Malihabad.
Welcome to Malihabad, a charming and rustic hamlet nestled in the Kakori tehsil of the culturally rich Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh. While the village may seem ordinary at first glance, it holds a delectable secret that has captured the hearts of millions – the renowned Dussehri mango.
The Dussehri mango, an exquisite variety grown in the northern regions of India, is a fruit that embodies the essence of summer. Its small to medium-sized frame, measuring 8 to 15 centimetres, boasts an elongated, straight oval shape with distinct blunt, curving ends. The skin of this splendid mango varies from pale green to yellow-green, encasing a delightful surprise within.
What truly sets the Dussehri mango apart is its exceptional taste, which is complemented by an alluring fragrance that permeates the air. This unique combination of flavors and aromas has earned the Dussehri mango a place among the iconic fruits and makes it a delightful addition to a plethora of sweet and dessert delicacies.
Legend has it that the genesis of this marvelous fruit traces back two centuries to the 18th century during the reign of Nawab Asaf ud daullah of Awadh. The Nawab’s profound fondness for the fruit paved the way for its popularity and fame. It is said that the first Dussehri mango tree was lovingly nurtured by a skilled cultivator named Hameed Khandari. The seedling, believed to have been brought from West Asia, took root and thrived, giving rise to what is now famously known as the ‘Mother tree’ that still stands tall in Dussehri village.
The lush countryside surrounding Malihabad is dotted with more than 3000 orchards, dedicated to nurturing this precious variety. Among the distinguished personalities who have contributed significantly to the Dussehri mango’s prosperity is the renowned Padma Shri awardee, Kaleemullah Khan, affectionately hailed as the ‘Father of Mango Grafting.’ Khan’s collaboration with the State government’s horticulture research & promotion department led to the breeding of over 3000 mango varieties. Through scientific methods of cultivation and growth, these efforts have substantially increased the yield, propelling the popularity of the Dussehri mango to new heights.
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Malihabad’s rustic charm and the exquisite Dussehri mango create an enchanting fusion that celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage and natural bounty
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As you explore this dusty hamlet, you will find yourself captivated by the sweet aroma that permeates the air and the flavors that linger on your taste buds, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the iconic Dussehri mango and the heartwarming community of Malihabad
The Dussehri mango’s reputation has reached such heights that the Government of India bestowed it with the prestigious Geographical Indication (G.I) recognition by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This acknowledgment highlights the fruit’s unique connection to the fertile lands of Malihabad and the authentic flavors it brings to the table.
Beyond its home in Malihabad, the Dussehri mango enjoys an esteemed place among other beloved mango varieties in the northern region, such as ‘Langra’ and ‘Chausa.’ Over the years, Malihabad has become the epicenter of Dussehri mango production, drawing in droves of enthusiasts and connoisseurs seeking to relish this sumptuous delicacy.
In conclusion, Malihabad’s rustic charm and the exquisite Dussehri mango create an enchanting fusion that celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage and natural bounty. As you explore this dusty hamlet, you will find yourself captivated by the sweet aroma that permeates the air and the flavors that linger on your taste buds, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the iconic Dussehri mango and the heartwarming community of Malihabad.
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