Bengaluru hosts first-ever organic mango and jackfruit festival at Lalbagh

The fragrant blend of ripe mangoes and jackfruits filled the air at Lalbagh's Dr. M.H. Marigowda Hall on Friday as the city witnessed the grand inauguration of the first-ever Organic Mango and Jackfruit Festival, jointly organized by the Jaivik Krishik Society and the Department of Horticulture.

The three-day festival, which runs until May 25, aims to showcase the diversity and value-added products of organically grown mangoes and jackfruits. Visitors can explore over 85 varieties of mangoes and 60 varieties of jackfruits, all naturally ripened without chemicals.

Around 15 tonnes of jackfruit and 13 tonnes of mangoes are on display and available for sale, with stalls open from 7 AM to 6 PM daily.

Visitors indulged in an array of jackfruit-based delights like ice cream, pickles, chips, chocolates, halwa, kebabs, holige (sweet flatbreads), vadas, dosas, and more.

Rare mango varieties such as Nayazaki, Red Ivory, Banana Mango, Jeerige Mango, and seedless jackfruits from Ranganaswamy Farm caught the eye of enthusiasts.

Miyazaki mangoes, considered among the most expensive in the world, and historic mango cultivars from Tipu Sultan’s Bada Bagh orchard also drew significant attention.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Shamla Iqbal, Secretary of the Department of Horticulture and Sericulture. Speaking at the event, she emphasized the goal of the festival — to provide a strong market platform for the produce of over 1.5 lakh organic farmers in Karnataka.

Also present were Jaivik Society Executive Chairman Vishwanath, Honorary President Dr. Ramakrishnappa, officials from the Horticulture Department including Dr. Parashiva Murthy, Dr. Dundi, and PKVY Project Officer Hema.

This festival not only celebrates Karnataka’s horticultural wealth but also promotes sustainable agriculture and consumer awareness about the benefits of chemical-free produce.