Kesar mangoes from Gujarat are globally renowned for their exceptional taste and rich aroma. Typically, the mango season begins around April and reaches its peak in May. However, a unique twist of nature brought these prized mangoes to the market well before the onset of winter. Four boxes of Kesar mangoes, each weighing 10 kilograms, were brought for auction at the Porbandar marketing yard the day after Sharad Purnima. This unexpected arrival stunned local traders and agriculture enthusiasts alike, marking a sharp departure from the traditional agricultural calendar.
Origin of the Mangoes and the Festive Auction Setup
These unusual mangoes originated from the Ranavav and Hanumangarh villages located in the Barda region of Gujarat. They were placed for auction at the Sudama Fruit Company situated within the Porbandar marketing yard. The arrival of the fruit months ahead of its normal season surprised seasoned traders. The auction kicked off on a celebratory note by breaking a coconut and distributing sweets among the attendees. Traders widely described the phenomenon as a remarkable and rare miracle of nature that had never been witnessed at this time of the year before.
Record Breaking Bids and International Exports
During the intense bidding process, a single 10 kg box fetched a staggering price of 14,500 rupees, translating to 1,450 rupees per kilogram. Two other boxes were sold together for 28,500 rupees, averaging out to 1,425 rupees per kilo. Meanwhile, the fourth box secured a bid of 10,500 rupees, which amounted to 1,050 rupees per kilo. The total revenue generated from all four boxes reached 53,500 rupees. Out of these purchases, one box was acquired by a trader from Rajkot and another by a local buyer from Porbandar, while the remaining two boxes were purchased specifically for export to the United Kingdom (UK).
Scanty Rainfall and Scorching Heat as Main Triggers
According to Nitin Dasani of Sudama Fruit Company, deficient rainfall during the monsoon season followed by intense heat waves caused the mango trees to blossom prematurely during the holy month of Shravan. These abnormal weather conditions accelerated the ripening process, pushing the fruit into the market long before schedule. Experts noted, however, that this remains an isolated occurrence and should not be used to draw broad conclusions about the overall annual production or general weather patterns for the upcoming main mango season.
A Shift from Summer Staple to October Surprise
Typically cultivated in Gir Somnath and surrounding areas of Gujarat, the Kesar mango holds a distinct identity and is exported in large quantities overseas. Usually enjoyed as a summer staple, the fruit making an appearance for auction in October caught both dealers and consumers completely off guard. This untimely harvest and subsequent high-value auction have successfully placed Porbandar's Kesar mangoes right at the center of widespread public and commercial attention.
