There’s something about mangoes that turns even the most reserved among us into fruit fanatics. That something was on full display at Delhi’s Thyagaraj Stadium on Friday (June 27), where the city’s much-anticipated 34th Mango Festival opened. Inaugurated by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the event transformed the venue into a mango lover’s paradise, complete with over 400 varieties of the king of fruits and a host of mango-themed festivities.
The event which is organised by Delhi Tourism is more than just a fruity spectacle. Since its inception in 1987, the Mango Festival has served as a delicious bridge between urban consumers and mango farmers from across the country. From the dainty Husnara to the papaya-sized Haathijhool and from the royal Amrapali to the aromatic Rataul, this year’s lineup is as diverse as it is delicious.
“This is not just about mangoes, it’s about learning, sharing and celebrating India’s agricultural brilliance,” CM Gupta said, interacting with children and visitors at the exhibition. She also highlighted how the event complements PM Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” and “One India, Great India” initiatives.
The festival has drawn participation from leading institutions like ICAR-IARI Pusa, GB Pant University, Bihar Agricultural University and the Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture.
India, which grows nearly two-thirds of the world’s mangoes, is proudly showcasing its mango heritage here. Mango aficionados can indulge in eating competitions, enjoy cultural performances, explore kids’ zones and selfie stations and even shop for mangoes and related products.
The Mango Festival is open to the public daily from 11 am to 9 pm until June 29, with free shuttle services running from INA Metro Station for easy access.
