India, the land of vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, is also synonymous with mangoes. Known as the "king of fruits," the mango holds a special place in the hearts of Indians, with a rich history and a plethora of varieties that tantalize taste buds across the country. From the Alphonso to the Dasheri, each type boasts a unique flavor, texture, and aroma, making the Indian mango season a truly delightful experience.

Alphonso: The Aristocrat from Maharashtra

Hailing from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, the Alphonso, also known as Hapus, is perhaps the most globally recognized Indian mango. Its distinct sweetness, creamy texture, and captivating aroma have earned it the title of "king of mangoes." The Alphonso season typically begins in late February or early March, with farmers in Ratnagiri and Devgad anticipating an early harvest in 2025 due to favorable weather conditions. The unique coastal climate and mineral-rich soil of this region contribute to the Alphonso's unparalleled qualities. However, recent challenges such as climate change and unpredictable weather conditions have led to lower yields and higher prices for Alphonso mangoes in 2025. To combat counterfeits and ensure authenticity, Devgad mangoes now feature tamper-proof stickers with embedded codes, allowing customers to verify their origin and support local cultivators.

Dasheri: The Sweet Legend from the North

The Dasheri mango, with its origins in North India, particularly Uttar Pradesh, is another highly popular variety. Known for its elongated shape and exceptionally sweet flavor, the Dasheri is a summer favorite. The city of Lucknow is particularly famous for its Dasheri mangoes. In fact, India gifted three Dasheri saplings, along with other varieties, to China in the 1950s, as a gesture of mango diplomacy. The Dasheri mango is so deeply rooted in North Indian culture that it is now cultivated in China, which has become a significant player in the global mango export market, even exporting some of these varieties back to India.

Other Notable Varieties:

Besides Alphonso and Dasheri, India boasts a wide array of mango varieties, each with its own regional significance:

• Langra: Another North Indian favorite, the Langra is known for its greenish hue and tangy-sweet flavor.
• Kesar: Originating from Gujarat, the Kesar mango is characterized by its saffron-colored pulp and sweet taste.
• Banganapalli: Also known as Benishan, this large-sized mango from Andhra Pradesh is prized for its sweet flavor and suitability for both fresh consumption and processing.
• Neelam: Predominantly grown in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana, the Neelam is a drought-tolerant variety with a distinct sweet-sour taste.
• Chausa: A late-season variety from North India, the Chausa is known for its strong sweetness and pulpy flesh, harvested when other mangoes have vanished from the market.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While India is the world's largest mango producer, accounting for approximately 40% of global production, its export share has been lower than expected. In recent years, China's mango exports, including Indian varieties, have surpassed India's own exports, raising concerns about competitiveness. However, India's mango exports to the United States have been growing rapidly, reaching $10.01 million in FY24, a 130% increase from the previous year.

Recently, there have been some hurdles. In May 2025, a data recording error at a key irradiation facility in Mumbai led to the rejection of 15 mango consignments by US authorities. This issue was quickly resolved, and exports have resumed, with authorities emphasizing adherence to established protocols.

Despite these challenges, the future of Indian mangoes looks promising. With increasing global demand, improved export infrastructure, and a focus on quality and authenticity, India is poised to solidify its position as a leading mango exporter.