Delhi Tourism organizes the Mango Festival each year, intending to provide exposure to the domestic Mango Industry by exploring the evergreen love for Mango harbored by every Indian household. The Festival also provides agro-industries and food processing industries the opportunity to display their products. Relish, the celebration of the King of Fruits at Dilli Haat, Janakpuri, and indulge in the summer delight of Mangoes.
This year, the 33rd edition of the Mango Festival, organized by Delhi Tourism in association with the Government of Delhi, was inaugurated by the Honorable Sh. Saurabh Bhardwaj, Minister of Tourism, Government of Delhi, on the 5th of July, 2024 at Dilli Haat, Janakpuri. Ms. Niharika Rai, MD & CEO of Delhi Tourism, and Ms. Mitali Naamchoom, General Manager of Delhi Tourism, were also present during the inauguration.
Eating mangoes provides health benefits such as lowering cholesterol, rejuvenating the skin, preventing heat stroke, and improving vision, among many others.
Speaking to reporters, Ms. Niharika Rai, MD & CEO of Delhi Tourism, said, “It’s great to see the different sizes, colors, and tastes of mangoes coming from different parts of the country. It’s one of the ways to unite India again. Seeing so many varieties and colors is a wonderful sight.”
From the 5th to the 7th of July, 2024, Dilli Haat Janak Puri transformed into a mango paradise, displaying an array of nearly 500 mango varieties. These range from traditional favorites to exotic and rare breeds, each with its unique flavor profile, texture, and history. The festival not only celebrates the diversity of mangoes but also the farmers and cultivators who dedicate their lives to perfecting this fruit. The various types of mangoes on display included Langra, Chausa, Rataul, Hussainara, Ramkela, Kesar, Fazari, Mallika, Amrapali, and other assorted varieties.
Mango growers from across the country, including Lucknow, Bangalore, Pant Nagar, Bhagalpur, Saharanpur, Pusa New Delhi, Muzaffarnagar, and Sitapur, gathered here to display traditional and hybrid varieties of mangoes.
Highlights of the festival include the Mango Eating Competitions, segregated by gender, which are not just a test of appetite but also a fun-filled celebration of the fruit’s abundance. The Mango Quiz and Slogan Writing Competition aim to engage visitors of all ages in educational and creative activities, fostering a deeper connection with the fruit.
Cultural programs scheduled daily add a layer of entertainment and festivity, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian arts. For the younger attendees, joy rides ensure that the festival is an inclusive family event, while the sale of mango and mango-based products offers a chance to take a piece of the festival home.
The Mango Festival is more than just an event; it’s a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the essence of Delhi’s summer spirit. It’s an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in a sensory journey through the tastes, sights, and sounds of India’s mango heritage.
The Delhi Mango Festival is a vibrant testament to India’s rich agricultural heritage, showcasing an impressive array of mango varieties from all over the country. This annual event not only celebrates the ‘King of Fruits’ but also serves as a platform for growers to share their produce and innovations. The festival’s evolution into a significant cultural attraction reflects the deep-rooted love for mangoes in Indian society. Visitors can indulge in the taste of diverse mango types, each with its unique flavor and history, while also learning about the fruit’s nutritional benefits. The festival is a delightful experience that combines the joy of tasting with the knowledge of horticulture, making it a must-visit destination for fruit enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.
