Mango festival Lalbagh 2023

Yesterday I visited Lalbagh for Mango festival. This is a yearly festival held in the month of June. 

 There were all varieties of mangoes for sale, with farmers from different districts like Ramanagaram, Kolar around Bangalore.

The profits directly go to the farmers who grow the trees as there are no middle men.

A bit of context for the festival:

The Lalbagh Mango Festival, also known as the Lalbagh Mango Mela, is an annual event held in the city of Bangalore, Karnataka, India. It is a grand celebration of the most beloved fruit in the country, the mango. The festival takes place in the famous Lalbagh Botanical Garden, which is known for its stunning collection of plants and trees. This festival provides a platform for mango lovers and enthusiasts to come together, explore various mango varieties, indulge in mango-based delicacies, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage associated with this tropical fruit.

Historical Significance:

The Lalbagh Botanical Garden, where the Mango Festival is held, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It was initially commissioned by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, and later expanded by his son Tipu Sultan. The garden was established with the aim of cultivating rare and exotic plants from across the world. Over time, it became a hub for horticultural research and conservation.

In 1920, the first Mango Festival was organized in Lalbagh, showcasing the diverse varieties of mangoes grown in Karnataka. Since then, the festival has grown in popularity and scale, attracting locals, tourists, and mango enthusiasts from all over the world.

Highlights of the Festival:

Mango Displays: The festival showcases a wide range of mango varieties, including traditional Indian varieties such as Alphonso, Totapuri, Badami, and Dasheri, as well as rare and exotic varieties from different parts of the country. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant display of mangoes, arranged in artistic patterns, and learn about their distinct flavors, textures, and nutritional properties.

Fruit Contests: One of the highlights of the festival is the fruit contests held to identify the best mangoes in different categories. Farmers and enthusiasts participate in these contests, presenting their finest mangoes for evaluation by a panel of experts. The winners are awarded prizes and recognition for their exceptional produce.

Mango Tasting: The Mango Festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to taste and savor a wide range of mango varieties. From juicy and sweet to tangy and aromatic, the festival provides a sensory experience for mango lovers. Expert vendors and farmers are present to guide visitors and provide insights into the distinct characteristics of each variety.

Cultural Performances: The festival is not just about mangoes; it also celebrates the vibrant cultural heritage of Karnataka. Visitors are treated to mesmerizing music, dance performances, and traditional folk arts that showcase the essence of the state's culture. These performances add a touch of festivity and entertainment to the overall experience.

Workshops and Demonstrations: The festival organizes various workshops and demonstrations related to mango cultivation, grafting techniques, and innovative recipes using mangoes. These sessions provide valuable knowledge and insights for both amateur gardeners and professionals in the horticultural industry.

Mango-Based Delicacies: The Mango Festival is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide array of mango-based delicacies. From traditional sweets like mango burfi and mango peda to refreshing drinks like mango lassi and mango shakes, the festival caters to every palate. Visitors can indulge in these mouthwatering treats and experience the versatility of mangoes in culinary delights.

Promoting Horticulture and Tourism:

The Lalbagh Mango Festival serves as a platform to promote horticulture, agriculture, and tourism in Karnataka. It creates awareness about the importance of preserving and nurturing diverse mango varieties, which are not only a significant part of India's culinary culture but also contribute to the agricultural economy of the state.

The festival attracts a large number of tourists from different parts of the country and abroad.