Rediscovering the Grandeur of Bihar’s Dudhiya Malda Mango: Why the Milky Fruit Needs to be Conserved from Extinction
Rediscovering the Grandeur of Bihar’s Dudhiya Malda Mango: Why the Milky Fruit Needs to be Conserved from Extinction
The orchards of Digha, once filled with the delightful aroma of these mangoes, now face the threat of urbanisation.
30 April 2024
In the heartlands of Bihar, where the Ganges flows gently and history whispers through the air, lies a treasure trove that has captivated palates across continents. It’s the land of Dudhiya Malda, a mango variety so exquisite that it’s often hailed as the king of mangoes in Bihar. But what makes this mango so special? Let’s peel back the layers and delve into the world of Dudhiya Malda.
A Sweet Taste of History: Legend has it that Nawab Fida Hussain of Lucknow, with a keen eye for horticulture, brought a sapling of this majestic mango from the fertile lands near the Shah Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. Planted in the rich soils of Digha, Patna, this mango thrived under the nurturing touch of the Nawab’s care.
What sets Dudhiya Malda apart is its unique irrigation method – it’s nurtured not with water, but with milk.
It is said that the Nawab, surrounded by his bovine companions, used leftover milk to irrigate the young sapling. Little did he know that this unconventional method would give birth to a mango so divine, it would soon capture the hearts of connoisseurs worldwide.
The Quintessence of Dudhiya Malda: Dudhiya Malda is not just a fruit; it’s a symphony of flavours and textures that dance on the taste buds. With a thin seed, a majority of generous pulp and a delicate peel, each bite is a sensory delight. Its sweetness is unparalleled, leaving a lingering aroma that evokes memories of lazy summer days. But what truly sets it apart is its milky-white hue, a testament to its unique upbringing. In a sea of mangoes, Dudhiya Malda stands out like a pearl, coveted by all those who seek the epitome of mango perfection.
A Gift from Bihar to the World: While Dudhiya Malda finds its roots in the heart of Bihar, its fame knows no bounds. Mango consignments from Digha have made their way to 33 countries across the world, spreading joy and sweetness all over the globe, this Mango has travelled the world more than any globe trotter. From heads of state to humble mango lovers, everyone yearns for a taste of this royal fruit. Countries like the USA, England, Japan and even the city of Dubai eagerly await each year’s harvest, a testament to the global appeal of Dudhiya Malda.
Despite its widespread popularity, the spirit of Dudhiya Malda remains deeply rooted in its homeland, where each mango tells a story of tradition, perseverance and love for the land. Film actor Raj Kapoor and singer Suraiya, mesmerised by the aroma of Digha’s mango orchards, took cartons of Dudhiya Malda mangoes to Mumbai in 1952, igniting a frenzy for this golden fruit.
Former Indian President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, a proud native of Bihar, introduced Dudhiya Malda to prominent personalities, including Indira Gandhi, showcasing Bihar’s culinary heritage on the national stage. During his tenure in Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Prasad often reminisced about Digha ka Malda, and in 1962, during his visit to Patna. Since then, every year, a consignment of mangoes is sent from Digha to prominent personalities, politicians, industrialists and celebrities alike, as the fruit has always amused their tastes.
Preserving a Legacy
As the world embraces the allure of Dudhiya Malda, it’s essential to safeguard its legacy for generations to come. The orchards of Digha, once filled with the delightful aroma of these mangoes, now face the threat of urbanisation. Concrete structures have replaced lush greenery, shrinking the orchards to a mere shadow of their former glory. With only around 100 trees remaining now, the need for conservation is urgent. Organisations and individuals alike must join hands to plant Dudhiya Malda trees on a larger scale, ensuring that future generations can savour the magic of Bihar’s crown jewel in the mango kingdom. As orchards in Digha face the challenges of modernization, it becomes imperative to preserve this symbol of Bihar’s identity.
A Legacy of Taste and Culture
The story of Dudhiya Malda is not just a tale of mangoes but a saga of resilience and passion. From the days of Nawab Fida Hussain to the bustling markets of modern-day Bihar, Dudhiya Malda has stood the test of time, a beacon of sweetness in a world of chaos. As we savour each bite of this divine fruit, let us remember the hands that nurtured it, the lands that bore it and the spirit that defines it. Dudhiya Malda isn’t just a mango; it’s a legacy of taste, woven into the fabric of Bihar’s rich cultural tapestry. So, the next time you bite into a juicy Dudhiya Malda, remember that you’re tasting more than just fruit – you’re tasting history itself.
