Mango marvel: The Jhariya family’s orchard odyssey

March 23, 2024 Unknown Wizards Valli Sarvani No comments

Nestled near the Gir Forest National Park in Bhalchhel village, Gujarat, lies a unique mango garden spanning 12.5 acres.

Owned by the Jhariya family, this orchard is a treasure trove of biodiversity, boasting over 200 mango cultivars from across India.

The sheer variety of mangoes, gathered over three decades, makes this place a wonder for fruit enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The journey began in 1985 when Noor Ali Veera Jhariya, a visionary farmer, moved to Bhalchhel with dreams of cultivating mangoes.

Starting with ten acres, Noor Ali transformed the challenging terrain into a flourishing mango plantation.

His passion for mangoes knew no bounds, and by 1996, he embarked on a mission to collect diverse mango varieties, starting with 14 different kinds. Today, the Jhariya orchard thrives with 230 varieties of mangoes.

From the South Indian Chinna Rasam to the North Indian Chaunsa and even exotic breeds from various countries, the garden is a global mango mosaic. These include the United States, Thailand, Australia, Europe, and Israel.

The orchard is not just a hub for biodiversity but also a centre of innovation, housing unique finds like Sindhu-117, a seedless mango variety.

The Kesar variety reigns supreme in this region, drawing parallels with the famed Alphonso from Konkan and the Dasheri from Uttar Pradesh.

The family’s dedication is evident in every corner of the orchard, making it a sanctuary for mango lovers.

The orchard’s success has also translated into a thriving business. Anil Mango Farms and Nursery, managed by Sumeet and his brother Anil, sells around 2 lakh mango saplings annually, generating an impressive income of ₹24 lakhs.

This venture not only supports the Jhariya family but also contributes to the local economy by providing high-quality seedlings to farmers.

The Jhariya family’s mango orchard is a testament to their love for mangoes and their commitment to agriculture.

What started as a dream has blossomed into a haven for mango varieties from around the globe, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the sweet taste of nature’s bounty.

Image by Israel Martinez from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)