The Noorjahan mango, known for its impressive size—sometimes as heavy as a newborn baby—and exquisite quality, is carefully preserved by the Jadav family on their orchard in Madhya Pradesh. Their dedication is keeping this rare variety alive amid increasing market dominance of popular mango types.
- Noorjahan mangoes can weigh over 3 kg and grow up to a foot long
- Jadav family has preserved this rare variety since the 1960s
- Each mango sells for Rs 500 to Rs 1,500 depending on size
What happened
In the region of Katthiwada, Madhya Pradesh, the Jadav family continues to cultivate the rare Noorjahan mango, a variety notable for its unusually large size. Originating from a single graft planted by the family patriarch around 1965, they now manage five Noorjahan mango trees alongside dozens of other mango varieties on their 16-acre farm. Each tree produces fewer than 100 fruits annually, with a total output of about 350 mangoes per year.
The farm benefits from Katthiwada’s distinctive climate, soil, and rainfall, which contribute to the exceptional growth and survival of these giant mangoes. The Noorjahan mango is considered one of the largest mango varieties in India, sometimes weighing as much as a newborn baby and reaching lengths of up to a foot. The family’s dedication has kept this heirloom variety from disappearing despite the market favoring more widely grown mangoes.
Why it feels good
Preserving the Noorjahan mango serves as a tribute to the rich agricultural heritage of India and the biodiversity of traditional fruit varieties. In an era where mass-produced varieties dominate the market, the Jadav family’s efforts ensure that rare and exceptional mango types remain available for future generations. This helps maintain genetic diversity and celebrates local farming traditions.
Their work has also garnered attention beyond their immediate region, attracting thousands of visitors to the orchard annually. This recognition reinforces the cultural and economic importance of small farmers dedicated to maintaining rare crops. Selling these premium mangoes at prices up to Rs 1,500 each highlights the value of preserving unique produce in a competitive marketplace.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors and mango enthusiasts can explore the Noorjahan Mango Farms to see these extraordinary fruits firsthand and learn about the family’s ongoing efforts. The farm not only offers a glimpse into rare agricultural practices but also supports the local economy and inspires others to protect lesser-known fruit varieties. As interest grows, it may encourage more growers to cultivate these heirloom types.
Beyond Noorjahan, the family’s orchard includes 33 other mango varieties, some of which are also rare and fading from commercial production. Following the Jadav family’s story provides a meaningful connection to India’s diverse mango heritage and highlights the importance of conserving biodiversity within fruit cultivation. Watching the continued success and outreach of these preserving efforts promises hope for other disappearing crops nationwide.