Mango-lovers in for treat from tomorrow

From Alphonso to Amrapali, mango-lovers can choose from over 500 in a festival that kicks off tomorrow in Delhi.

So, if you have a weakness for the king of the fruits then head to Delhi Haat, Janakpuri, where 30th Mango Festival will be hosted from July 6-8, an official said.

"With over 500 varieties on display at the festival, this journey of mangoes from the orchards to Dilli Haat would definitely be a refreshing experience for the visitors.

"The various types of mangoes on display will include Langra, Chausa, Rataul, Hussainara, Ramkela, Kesar, Fazri, Mallika and Amrapali and other assorted varieties," senior official of Delhi Tourism said today.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia would inaugurate the festival at the haat, he said.

For all those with a sweet tooth out there, there would be various assorted recipes made with mangoes by notable chefs from five-star hotels.

Not to forget, there will be a wide display of food products made from mangoes, such as jams, pickles, fruit juice and canned fruit for all to relish.

The festival is being organised by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC).

It was first organised in the year 1987 and since then has shifted venues many times -- Talkatora Indoor Stadium, Ashoka Hotel, Pragati Maidan, and then in 2010 to Dilli Haat, Pitampura.

It has been organised at Delhi Haat, Janakpuri for the last three years.

A host of other activities would also be organised during these three days -- mango-eating competition for men (July 8) and women (July 7); mango-themed quiz and slogan writing competition for children; band performances; stand-up comedy besides cultural performances.

Being the 'king of fruits' and the favourite of many due to its sweet essence, mango also has its health benefits.

There are more than 1,365 varieties of mangoes all over the world, and in India about 1,000 varieties are available.

The major mango-growing states are Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, according to the Delhi Tourism.