The Success of Gir Kesar Mangoes: Gujarat's Contribution to Premium Mango Farming

11 Apr , 2025

The Success of Gir Kesar Mangoes: Gujarat's Contribution to Premium Mango Farming

The "Gir Kesar" mango, which is also just called "Kesar," is a rare and valuable variety that grows in the fertile slopes of Girnar in Gujarat, western India mango farmland. The bright orange flesh and delicious sweetness of the Kesar mango make it stand out. Its bright colour and pleasant smell also make it more appealing. In 2011, the Kesar mango was given geographical indication (GI) rank because of its unique regional heritage and high quality.

This honorific name emphasises the unique qualities of the fruit that are strongly connected to the place where it is grown. This makes sure that only mangoes grown in this area can be sold with the prestigious name "Gir Kesar." This honour not only keeps the Kesar mango's history and identity alive, but it also helps local farmers by spreading the word about the fruit on a national and international level.

 

The Journey of Kesar Mango

Starting in 1931, when Junagadh Wazir Salé Bhai planted the first grafts in Vanthali, the Kesar mango's journey Of these grafts, seventy-five settled on the Junagadh Laal Dori farm, which is tucked away in Girnar's slopes. The mango got its name "Kesar" in 1934 when Muhammad Mahabat Khan III, the Nawab of Junagadh, marvelled at the saffron-coloured pulp and remarked, "This is Kesar" the Gujarati and Hindi term for saffron.

 

Production and cultivation

Kesar mango farming on around 20,000 hectares in Gujarat's Saurashtra region's Junagadh and Amreli districts, the Kesar mango is The area generates around two lakh tonnes of this beautiful fruit annually. But only the mangoes cultivated close to the Gir sanctuary are formally identified as "Gir Kesar mango."

Kesar mango cultivation starts in October, after the monsoon season. Usually ready for market by April-May, the fruits are picked in the green mature stage to guarantee optimal quality. Rich in taste and vivid colour, the Kesar variety is among the most costly mango types.

 

Conclusion

The Gir Kesar mango is a symbol of Gujarati pride and agricultural success that goes back a long way. From the fertile slopes of Girnar to fame around the world, its journey shows how hard-working and passionate Gujarat's farmers are in mango farming. The Kesar mango is praised for its cultural significance and high quality. It has a rich flavour, bright orange pulp, and many health benefits. The Gir Kesar mango is one of India's most valuable crops, whether people eat it for its taste, health benefits, or traditional significance.


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Newer Post
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