Early Arrival of Kesar Mangoes in Gujarat Markets Sets Optimistic Tone
The much-awaited Kesar mango season has kicked off prematurely in Gujarat, with the first auctions commencing at the Talala market yard in Gir Somnath district approximately one week ahead of the usual schedule. This early arrival has generated significant buzz among farmers, traders, and exporters, despite initial volumes being notably lower compared to the previous year.
Market Dynamics and Pricing Trends
The Talala market yard, recognized as the primary trading hub for the prized Kesar variety, initiated its auction activities on April 19. On the inaugural day, approximately 10,500 boxes, each weighing 10 kilograms, were auctioned. This figure represents a decrease of around 3,000 boxes from the corresponding period last year. Subsequently, daily arrivals have stabilized, ranging between 4,200 to 4,500 boxes per day.
Ramesh Siroya, the secretary of the Talala market yard, provided insights into the current market conditions. He noted that while the quality of the early-season fruit exhibits some variation and is slightly inferior, prices have remained remarkably stable. "The initial crop quality is not at its peak, but observing the flowering patterns, we anticipate the season to be longer than usual," Siroya explained.
Currently, premium-grade Kesar mangoes are commanding prices between Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,200 per box at the wholesale yard. In retail markets across the region, consumers are paying between Rs 160 and Rs 200 per kilogram for these aromatic fruits.
Farmer Optimism and Agricultural Challenges
Agricultural experts and farmers are expressing optimism about an extended harvesting period this year, primarily attributed to an unusual double flowering cycle observed in many orchards. Parshottam Sidpara, a cultivator from Jamvala Gir in Junagadh district, elaborated on this phenomenon. "Some mango trees experienced two flowering cycles—one earlier and another in late January. This has resulted in both an early and a late crop," he stated.
Sidpara further suggested that if the monsoon rains are delayed until late June, mango supplies could potentially continue through August or even September, significantly prolonging the season.
However, the season has not been without its difficulties. Unseasonal rainfall and hailstorms have inflicted damage in certain growing areas, leading to substantial crop losses due to fruit drop. Natha Bhattu, a farmer from Bhesan, reported suffering significant financial losses this year due to these adverse weather conditions.
Robust Export Demand and Expanding Cultivation
Despite domestic challenges, international demand for Gujarat's Kesar mangoes remains exceptionally strong. The pack house facility at the Talala market yard has already dispatched six consignments, each weighing 1,200 kilograms, to the United States. Additional export orders are anticipated from markets in Canada and the United Kingdom in the coming weeks.
The cultivation of Kesar mangoes continues to expand across Gujarat, driven by strong market demand and attractive economic returns for farmers. The total area under cultivation has increased substantially from 35,000 hectares in 2021 to approximately 44,000 hectares in the 2024–25 agricultural year. Annual production now averages around 3.15 lakh metric tonnes.
While traditionally concentrated in the districts of Junagadh, Gir Somnath, and Amreli, Kesar mango cultivation has now spread to several other regions including:
- Bhavnagar
- Porbandar
- Devbhumi Dwarka
- Rajkot
- Morbi
- Surendranagar
This geographical expansion reflects the growing popularity and economic viability of this distinctive mango variety, which is cherished for its rich flavor, vibrant color, and exceptional aroma both domestically and internationally.
