Kesar mangoes originated in the early 1900s in Gujarat, along India’s western coast. From humble beginnings, this Indian mango has grown to global fame, earning its status as a recognised mango celeb, and for good reason too.
A close competitor to the Alphonso mango (or "king of fruits") the kesar mango is known as the "queen of fruits". This prized Indian mango has an irresistibly sweet flavour and vibrant orange flesh, often described as “saffron” in colour (which is what "kesar" means in Hindi).
So where did it all begin?
Kesar Mango Beginnings: The Girnar Hills of Gujarat
The journey of the Kesar mango is widely believed to have begun in 1931, when Junagadh’s Wazir Sale Bhai cultivated around 75 grafts at the Laal Dori farm near the Girnar Hills in Vanthali, Gujarat.
Planted in this region’s unique climate and soil, those first grafts gave rise to a brand new mango variety. This is where the mango has earned its name Gir Kesar, in reference to the location in the Girnar Hills.
The Gir Kesar mango is exclusively grown in Gujarat, India, specifically in the geographic region surrounding the Gir forest in Junagadh and Amreli districts. This mango flourishes in several villages, including Junagadh, Vanthali, Mendarda, Talala, Maliya, Kodinar, Una, and Visavadar in Junagadh district, as well as Dhari and Khambha in Amreli district.
Why Kesar Mangoes are Known as 'Saffron Mangoes
In 1934, Nawab Muhammad Mahabat Khan III of Junagadh tasted the Kesar mango and was captivated by its vibrant color and sweet, rich flavor. He declared it “Kesar” meaning saffron in Gujarati, which was a reference to its glowing saffron flesh. This moment marked the mango’s rise to fame, and it has been known as "Gir Kesar" ever since.
What Makes Kesar Mangoes Special
Kesar mangoes are cherished for their unique qualities:
- Fragrant Aroma: Sweet, enticing fragrance.
- Vibrant Colour: Bright saffron-orange flesh.
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Sweet Taste: A delightful burst of sweetness.
- Texture: Smooth and buttery, melting in your mouth.
- Nutritional Value: Packed with vitamins A and C, plus antioxidants.
How to know if you're mango is a genuine kesar? Check out our article on how to identify kesar mangoes.
The Soil and Climate Factors Unique to Gujarat
What’s the secret behind the region of Gujarat’s Kesar mango growing success? It’s all in these three crucial factors.
- Soil Power: Kesar mango trees love the sandy to loamy soils of Gujarat, with a perfect pH range of 5.5–7.5. These conditions ensure strong roots and lush fruit growth. Good drainage prevents waterlogging, and a touch of organic matter boosts the soil’s nutrients, nurturing these prized mangoes.
- The Goldilocks Climate: Not too wet, not too dry. Gujarat’s semi-arid warmth, especially near the Girnar Hills, provides an unbeatable combination of temperatures (25°C to 35°C), abundant sunlight, and monsoon rains. The dry spells are just what mango trees need to blossom and fruit without interruptions.
- The Unique Conditions in Junagadh: Uniquely to this geographic region, moderate humidity and cool nights work in harmony to produce Kesar mangoes with their signature rich flavour and intoxicating aroma.
Timeline and History of Kesar Mango Cultivation
Here’s a timeline of Kesar mango cultivation, illustrating its evolution from local farming to global recognition:
- 1931: The first cultivation of Kesar mangoes begins at the Laal Dori farm in Junagadh.
- 1934: The Nawab of Junagadh names the mango “Kesar,” boosting its recognition and cultivation.
- 1960s: Modern agricultural techniques, including better grafting, lead to increased yields and improved fruit quality.
- 1980s: Kesar mangoes become a top export, with cultivation expanding to 20,000 hectares.
- 2000s: Global demand increases, driving international exports.
- 2020s: Advances in sustainable farming practices lead to an estimated annual production of 200,000 tonnes.
Future Challenges for Kesar Mango Growers
The future challenges for growing Kesar mangoes revolve around several factors, including climate change, water availability, and pest management. Here are some key challenges:
- Climate Change: Fluctuating temperatures and changing rainfall patterns can affect the flowering and fruiting of Kesar mangoes. Rising temperatures may lead to heat stress, impacting yield and quality.
- Water Scarcity: The Saurashtra region of Gujarat, where Kesar mangoes are primarily grown, often faces water shortages. Effective irrigation management and water conservation techniques are crucial to ensure sustainable production.
- Pest and Disease Management: Kesar mangoes are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including fruit flies and powdery mildew. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies will be essential to maintain crop health while minimizing chemical use.
- Market Competition: As Kesar mangoes gain popularity, competition from other mango varieties and regions may increase. Producers must focus on maintaining quality and exploring export opportunities to stay competitive.
In Summary
Kesar mangoes have a rich history and significant cultural importance, especially in Gujarat, where their cultivation has evolved over the decades. Despite facing challenges like climate change and water scarcity, the allure of these sweet, aromatic mangoes remains strong. Their unique flavor and vibrant color make them a must-try for mango lovers around the world.
If you haven't experienced the delight of Kesar mangoes yet, now is the perfect time to indulge in this exquisite fruit. Head over to our product page to order fresh Kesar mangoes online for delivery in the UK during the mango season.