Kesar Mango, Gir

Gir Kesar Mango – The Saffron-Hued Jewel of Gujarat

The Gir Kesar Mango, popularly called the “Kesar” mango, is one of the most prized varieties of mangoes in India. It earned the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its unique color, taste, and origin in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, making it a symbol of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Origin and Cultivation

Cultivation of Kesar Mangoes is primarily concentrated in the foothills of Girnar in Junagadh and Amreli districts of Gujarat. The fertile soil and favorable climate of the Gir region provide ideal conditions for this fruit. The trees are hardy, slow-growing, and usually start bearing fruit in 3–4 years, producing crops consistently year after year.

Distinctive Features

The Gir Kesar Mango is renowned for its:

• Oblong shape and medium size (about 250–300 grams per fruit)
• Golden saffron-colored pulp, almost free of fibers
• Naturally sweet taste with a pleasant aroma
• Richness in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants

The term “Kesar” (meaning saffron) highlights the fruit’s deep orange hue, which is as rich and appealing as the spice itself.

Economic and Cultural Importance

The Gir Kesar Mango is often referred to as the “Queen of Mangoes”. Its cultivation sustains thousands of farmers in Gujarat and contributes significantly to the state’s horticultural economy. It is also a popular export variety, carrying the fragrance of Gujarat’s orchards to international markets.

A Philatelic Tribute

The Department of Posts honored the Gir Kesar Mango with a commemorative postage stamp, under the series on Geographical Indications (GI) Agricultural Goods. This stamp pays tribute to the cultural pride and agricultural excellence of Gujarat, while showcasing India’s mango heritage to philatelists and fruit lovers worldwide.