Lucknow is set to embrace a sweet addition with the upcoming Mango Park in the Kalli Pashchim area, developed under Mission Amrit 2.0 by the Yogi Adityanath government. Spread across 15 acres near Kisan Path on Rae Bareli Road, the park, costing Rs 18 crore, will feature 2,068 mango plants of 108 varieties, including popular types like Amrapali and Dussehri. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will inaugurate the park by planting saplings on August 15, marking a milestone in promoting mango cultivation and heritage in Uttar Pradesh.

Promoting Mango Diversity: The Vision Behind the Park

The Mango Park aims not only to showcase the rich diversity of mango species but also to educate visitors about their cultural and Ayurvedic significance. A key highlight will be a 400 sqm mango museum, featuring digital exhibits on 775 mango species across India. Municipal commissioner Indrajit Singh emphasised, "This educational space will enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of mangoes." Additionally, plans include a 'mango haat' for promoting mango-based products and 'mango kiosks' for culinary indulgence, supported by the UP horticulture department and CISH.

Miyawaki Method and Biodiversity Enrichment

Employing the Miyawaki method, the park will cultivate 1,260 plants of 20 species, enhancing its biodiversity. Pathways named after mango species, mango-shaped lights, and aesthetic features like mango murals and a grand mango-shaped stone carving at the entrance will elevate the park's allure. A 1,930 sqm pond with aquatic plants and shade-giving species surrounding the boundary walls will further enrich its ecological diversity.

About Dussehri and Amrapali Mangoes:

Dussehri and Amrapali are renowned mango varieties associated with Lucknow, known for their distinct flavours and widespread popularity.

Dussehri Mango:

Dussehri is a traditional variety of mango cultivated mainly in North India, particularly in the Lucknow region of Uttar Pradesh. It is widely cherished for its sweet and tangy taste, with a unique aroma that sets it apart. The mango is medium-sized, with a thin skin and fiberless flesh, making it a favourite for eating fresh as well as for making desserts and beverages. Dussehri mangoes typically ripen by mid-summer, making them a seasonal delight eagerly awaited by mango enthusiasts.

Amrapali Mango:

Amrapali mango, named after the famous courtesan and dancer from ancient India, is another popular variety cultivated in Lucknow and other parts of India. It is known for its juicy and aromatic flesh, characterised by a sweet flavor with slight acidity. The mango is medium to large in size, with a smooth and vibrant skin that ranges from yellow to reddish blush when ripe. Amrapali mangoes are often used for making juices, jams, and other mango-based products due to their rich flavor profile.

Both Dussehri and Amrapali mangoes hold cultural significance in India and are celebrated during the mango season, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage and culinary diversity.