Murshidabad, West Bengal | May 29, 2025 — Mango lovers, mark your calendars! The historic town of Ajeemganj in Murshidabad is all set to host the 10th edition of the Ajeemganj Mango Festival, a month-long celebration of India’s favorite summer fruit, from June 1 to June 30, 2025. The festival is being organized by the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society (MHDS) in collaboration with the House of Sheherwali.Celebrated at the peak of mango season, this year’s edition promises to be the biggest yet, spotlighting Murshidabad’s rich mango legacy and royal heritage. Once the seat of the Nawabs, Murshidabad is famed for cultivating over 150 unique varieties of mangoes, many named after historic figures, royal preferences, and cultural anecdotes.“Murshidabad gears up for its biggest-ever Mango Festival starting June. Expanding into a month-long celebration, the 10th edition will showcase the city’s famed nawabi mangoes — offering a rich blend of taste and heritage,” said Pradip Chopra, President of MHDS.The festival will delve into the historic roots of mango cultivation in the region, with special focus on how Emperor Akbar’s efforts in cross-breeding mangoes led to the development of many of today’s varieties. India, the world’s largest mango producer, boasts over 500 types, with Murshidabad contributing a significant share of rare and culturally significant cultivars.
Highlight Mango Varieties of Murshidabad:
Kohitoor – A rare cross between the extinct Kalopahar and an unknown variety.
Nawab Pasand – A nawab’s personal favorite.
Inayat Pasand – Named after a jagirdar who promoted its cultivation.
Ranipasand – Favored by the Nawab’s queen.
Champa – Known for its floral champa-like aroma.
Bimli – Named after a maid of Mir Jafar.
Anaras – Distinct for its pineapple-like taste.
Saranga – A tribute to sarangi players of the nawabi court.
Gulabkhas – Bears a delicate rose fragrance.
Mohanbhog – Traditionally offered to Lord Krishna.
Peyarafuli – Features a guava-like taste.
Kishanbhog – Creamy texture with hints of pineapple.
Chandankosa – Sandalwood-scented mango.
Himsagar, Langra, Lakshmanbhog – Widely cultivated and loved in the region.
Bhawani, Rani, Bhabani, Molamjam, Shahdulla – Historic mangoes with Nawabi-era roots.
Experiential Mango Trails for Visitors Guests at the House of Sheherwali can indulge in curated daily mango trails, reminiscent of European wine tours. Each morning includes guided visits to local orchards, where visitors can hand-pick and taste mangoes fresh from the tree. Afternoons are reserved for savoring handpicked varieties with panoramic views of the Ganga River.The festival offers more than just a taste — it’s an educational and cultural journey. Attendees can explore the science, history, and folklore behind Murshidabad’s mango varieties, participate in interactive orchard walks, and meet local cultivators.Open to mango connoisseurs, food enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike, the Ajeemganj Mango Festival invites all to discover the royal flavors and stories of Murshidabad’s mangoes.
