The Emotional Connection with Mangoes
For Indians, mango is not merely a fruit but an emotion that resonates with the heat and aromatic flavors of summer. Each mango variety carries a story, often spanning decades. The mere mention of its hues and aroma evokes nostalgia tied to orchards, culinary creations, and cherished memories. Among the lesser-known varieties is Dudhiya Maldah, a unique mango native to Patna, Bihar.
Why Is It Called Dudhiya Maldah?
According to historical accounts, Nawab Fida Hussain of Lucknow brought a mango sapling from the area near Shah Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan, and planted it in Digha, Patna. It is said that he owned many cows and used leftover milk to irrigate the plants. When the tree bore fruit, a milk-like substance emerged from it, leading to the name Dudhiya Maldah.
Appearance and Taste
Dudhiya Maldah is renowned for its thin seeds, exceptionally juicy pulp, and thin peel. This rare variety is now on the verge of extinction, making it a prized possession for mango enthusiasts.
Supply and Export
According to a 2024 CNBC report, this unique mango was exported to around 33 countries during the previous season. It is also reported that Dudhiya Maldah is sent to all national leaders, including the Prime Minister and the President of India.
Stories of Aroma and Fame
An Instagram reel by @rishifromfarms shares that in 1952, Bollywood icon Raj Kapoor drove from Mumbai to Digha to taste Dudhiya Maldah. He was so captivated that he filled cartons and took them back to Mumbai. The post also mentions that in 1997, at the Singapore Mango Exhibition, where mangoes from around the world are ranked, Bihar’s Dudhiya Maldah secured the first position.
The Decline of the Fruit
The same social media post highlights that farmer Mohd. Irfan played a pivotal role in promoting Dudhiya Maldah, earning national and international acclaim at mango exhibitions. After his demise, the promotion of this mango slowed down. His sons could not maintain the garden, which is now a college campus.
Future of the Mango
Today, only about 1,000 trees remain in Digha. The CNBC report states that around 50 Dudhiya Maldah trees exist in Bihar Vidyapeeth, with only 1,000 trees left in Patna. Conservation efforts are crucial to prevent this rare variety from disappearing entirely.
