Forgotten Mangoes Make a Comeback: Market Buzz Revives Rare Varieties Like Husnara and Ratol

If you thought India’s mango story was all about Alphonso and Dasheri, think again. This summer, rare and nearly extinct varieties like Husnara and Ratol are making a quiet but exciting comeback, thanks to a surge in market demand and some dedicated revival efforts.

 

Key Highlights:

 

Across India, mango arrivals in markets are up nearly 70% compared to last year, with buyers showing a growing appetite for lesser-known varieties. Higher prices for unique mangoes have encouraged farmers to experiment with old cultivars, bringing back forgotten flavors that once graced royal tables.

 

Events like the Telangana Mango Expo have put the spotlight on rare types. The expo showcased over 400 varieties, including Husnara and Ratol, and highlighted new preservation techniques that help these delicate fruits last longer and reach more consumers.

 

Farmers and growers are using traditional grafting methods and chemical-free cultivation to restore these mangoes. Some, like the Salmani Brothers in Telangana, have dedicated hundreds of acres to rare mangoes, making them available not just locally but also for export.

 

The enthusiasm isn’t just about nostalgia. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for unique tastes and stories, making it financially viable for cultivators to invest in reviving these varieties.

 

Experts say this trend could help preserve India’s rich horticultural heritage, while also giving mango lovers new reasons to celebrate each summer.

 

Outlook:

With continued market interest and innovative farming, rare mangoes like Husnara and Ratol are set to reclaim their place on fruit stalls and in kitchens across India.

 

Sources: NDTV Profit, Times Now News, BBC Future