National Day of Mango 2023: Mango, the summer fruit is one of the most loved and consumed fruits. Every year, July 23 is celebrated as National Mango Day in India and many other parts of the world. The day celebrates the delicious taste and health benefits of whole tropical fruits.
Why is National Mango Day celebrated?
Mango has a long history that spans 5000 years and is associated with Indian folklore. The name “mango” which means “king of fruits” is derived from the Malayalam word “manna”, which was used by the Portuguese when they arrived in Kerala in 1498 to trade in spices.
The International Mango Festival was established in 1987 as a way of honoring mangoes that are highly regarded by the National Horticultural Board of India. Since then, it has grown into a highly regarded annual event, attracting mango lovers from across the country with its bustling mango markets, colorful displays and sweet treats. However, there is no official announcement of any theme to celebrate National Manga Day.
What is the meaning of National Mango Day?
Mango Day is of cultural and culinary importance as it celebrates the prized tropical fruit, the mango. This day affirms the role of sweet and succulent mango in different cultures, where it symbolizes abundance, prosperity and unity. It highlights the rich variety of mangoes, promoting their nutritional value and versatility in culinary creation. Mango Day encourages a sense of community, bringing people together to share their love for this beloved fruit through various activities, festivals and events. It also serves as a reminder of the agricultural importance of mango farming, encouraging sustainable and environmentally respectful practices for growing and producing the fruit.
How to celebrate National Mango Day?
- Host a mango themed party or lunch with friends and family. Prepare a variety of dishes with the main ingredient being mango, such as mango salsa, mango lassi, mango chutney and mango curry.
- Host a mango tasting event where you’ll discover different varieties of mangoes. Compare the taste, texture and sweetness of mangoes from different regions.
- Let the dessert party focus entirely on mango dishes. Offering mango ice cream, mango ice cream, mango mousse and mango cheesecake for everyone to enjoy.
- Learn how to make a refreshing mango smoothie with friends or colleagues. Experiment with different ingredients like yogurt, honey and other fruits to create unique blends.
- Organize a mango themed craft workshop for children and adults. Create mango-inspired artwork, decorations, or even mango scented candles.
- Head outside with a basket full of mangoes and enjoy a relaxing mango-themed picnic in the park or on the beach.
- Organize fun mango-themed contests and games, such as a mango eating contest, mango quiz or mango-themed charade.
- Join in protecting the environment by planting mango trees. Gather a group of friends or volunteers to contribute to tree planting and producing more mangoes in the future.
- If you can get to a mango farm or orchard, plan a visit to learn more about how mangoes are grown, harvested, and processed.
- Partner with local charities or food banks to distribute mangoes to those less fortunate. Use this day to spread happiness and share the joy of enjoying this delicious fruit with those who need it.
Some interesting facts about mango
- Mangoes are believed to have originated in South Asia, specifically from India, Myanmar (Burma) and Bangladesh. They have been cultivated for over 4000 years.
- The mango is the national fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines, showing its cultural and culinary importance in those countries.
- There are over 1,000 different varieties of mangoes, each varying in taste, size, shape, and color. Some well-known breeds include Alphonso, Haden, Kent, Keitt and Tommy Atkins.
- The mango tree blooms once a year and produces fragrant flowers. These flowers are often used in traditional Indian ceremonies and celebrations.
- India is the world’s largest mango producer, accounting for about 40% of global production.
- Mangoes belong to the same plant family (Anacardiaceae) as cashews and pistachios. They are also related to sedges and poison ivy.
- In Indian mythology, mango is often associated with love and fertility. They are considered a symbol of abundance and happiness.
- Mangoes continue to ripen after being picked from the tree. Putting it in a paper bag at room temperature can speed up the ripening process.
- In some cultures, mango leaves are used for a variety of purposes, such as festive decorations, religious ceremonies, and even as a traditional medicine to cure certain ailments.
- In 1987, then-President of India, Dr. Abdul Kalam, developed a new mango variety called “Safflower Mango” by crossing two varieties of mango.
- Mango peels have been found to contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mangoes are a rich source of essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. These nutrients support overall health and immune function.
- Mangoes are packed with antioxidants, including carotenoids like beta-carotene and flavonoids like quercetin, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
- Mangoes are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes regular bowel movements. They can also help prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
- The vitamin C content in mangoes supports the immune system, helping the body fight infections and diseases.
- Vitamin A and beta-carotene in mangoes are beneficial for skin health. They contribute to skin regeneration, hydration and protection from UV radiation.
- Mangoes contain nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in mangoes have been linked to improved heart health. They help lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure.
- Despite the sour taste, mango has an alkalizing effect on the body. Consuming mango can help maintain the body’s acid-base balance.
- Mangoes are relatively low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet, especially for those looking to control weight.
- Mangoes have a high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated and beneficial, especially in hot weather.
- Mangoes contain vitamin K, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Mango has a universal appeal and a sweet, succulent taste that makes it a favorite fruit of many people around the world. From its cultural significance to its nutritional value, mango has captured the hearts and taste buds of people across all continents for thousands of years. Regardless of how you choose to celebrate Mango Day, the focus is on enjoying the sweetness of this tropical fruit while cultivating a sense of community and gratitude for nature’s gift. Happy mango day!!
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Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education