National Mango Day is marked on July 22. This day honours the “king of fruits" and recognises its historical and cultural importance in India and around the world. National Mango Day is a celebration of taste, tradition, nostalgia, and enduring cultural ties rather than just a fruit.
Here is a tasty exploration of its history, health benefits, and interesting trivia.
National Mango Day: History
Mangoes
play a big role in the history and culture of several countries. They are
culturally significant in South Asia, particularly India, where they have been
cultivated for about 4,000–5,000 years.
Its roots are reflected in its biological name, Mangifera indica. The fruit’s popularity grew through exploration and trade. Mangoes were introduced to the world by traders, and it made its way to the Americas in the 18th century.
India’s International Mango Festival, which was started in 1987 by the National Horticulture Board to honour the heritage and diversity of mangoes, is closely related to “National Mango Day."
Mangoes represent love, friendliness, and prosperity in India. Historically, giving mango baskets as gifts has been considered a token of goodwill.
National Mango Day: Health Benefits
Besides being a sweet fruit, mangoes provide nutritional value:
1. They are rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants,
potassium and magnesium. Mangoes boost digestion, skin health, and immunity,
and may even lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
2. Mango fibre can make you feel full, which may
help you consume fewer calories overall, resulting in effective weight
management.
3. Mangoes contain antioxidants like lutein and
zeaxanthin, as well as vitamin A. These are helpful for eye health and can help
prevent age-related macular degeneration.
4. Vitamin K, which is found in mangoes, is necessary for blood coagulation and might contribute to bone health.
National Mango Day: Fun Facts
·
There are
around 1,000 to 1,500 varieties of the fruit worldwide. You are more likely to
find six to eight types of popular Indian mango varieties in your local market.
They are: Alphonso (Hapus), Dasheri, Langra, Kesar, Amrapali, Chaunsa,
Himsagar, and Totapuri.
·
Besides
their delicious flavour, mangoes are a superfood with a high amount of vitamins
and minerals.
·
Mango trees
are believed to grant wishes in Indian folklore.
·
Mangoes
belong to the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes cashews and pistachios.
