From Gadha to Hara*****: 10 unique mango varieties enjoyed in India

Mango season is in full swing in India. The royal charm of the 'King of Fruits' lies in its aroma, colour and taste. India, as the land of nearly 1,500 mango varieties, is also known for some of the most distinct names. From Gadha to Langda, these mango names might sound funny, but they actually carry rich, unknown stories and characteristics. Every mango variety has a rich culinary history behind its name and features, which are not known to many of us. Scroll down to explore 11 of the most unique and flavorful mango varieties found across India.

This variety looks like a parrot's beak, is greenish in color, and is mildly sweet. It is native to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

The Langra mango, also known as Langda, is a renowned variety originating from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The name "Langra," meaning "lame" in Hindi, is believed to derive from a local farmer who had a physical disability and was colloquially referred to as 'Langra.' It is a medium-sized oval variety with deep yellow to golden flesh, offering a rich, sweet, and slightly tangy taste.

This variety is native to Ratual, Uttar Pradesh. As per legends, despite its visually appealing, ripe appearance, it is notably bland, which led to its unconventional name—'Haramzada' translates to 'bastard' in English.

This mango variety is native to the orchards of Lucknow and has golden yellow skin and saffron-coloured flesh. It is a very rare variety and is available for a very short period between May-June.

The Tamuriya mango carries forward the rich legacy of Emperor Timur, who sampled this fruit on his way to conquer Delhi. Native to the Rataul region, Tamuriya boasts a distinct oblong shape and a greenish-yellow hue. It is known for offering balanced sweetness and a hint of tartness.

Makhsoos comes from the orchards of Malihabad in Maharashtra and is known for its limited harvest and exceptional quality. It has deep orange colour with reddish skin and fibrous flesh bursting with intense sweetness.

Also known as Fazli or Elephant Mango or Gadha (Donkey) mango, this one is native to West Bengal and can weigh up to a kilogram. It has fibrous flesh and mildly sweet flavor, making it more suitable for chutneys and pickles than for immediate consumption.

Significantly larger than their Alphonso counterparts, this mango variety is produced in Banaganapalle of Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. With its pleasant aroma, they are oval, have smooth skin and are around 14 cm in length.

Popular in North India and Bihar, this variety was introduced by Sher Shah Suri during his reign in the sixteenth century. Named after a town in Bihar, this variety is characterised by incredibly sweet pulp and bright yellow skin. This mango is widely used for making mango shake and custard dessert too.

Largely grown and consumed in Old Mysuru of Karnataka, this variety is known as the Queen of Mangoes in India. It arrives in the month of May and is available by the end of June. It tastes best in the form of yogurt, smoothie, and jam.