National Mango Day 2023: Mango, the fruit of summer, is one of the most loved and consumed fruits. Every year on July 23, National Mango Day is celebrated in India and many other parts of the world. The day celebrates the delicious taste and health benefits of this healthy tropical fruit.
Why is National Mango Day celebrated?
Mangoes have a long history of 5,000 years and are closely associated with Indian folklore. The name “mango” for “King of Fruits” is derived from the Malayam word “manna”, which the Portuguese adopted when they arrived in Kerala in 1498 to trade in spices.
The International Mango Festival was created in 1987 as a way to celebrate the prized mango by the National Horticulture Board of India. Since then, it has become a much-loved annual event that attracts mango lovers from all over the country with bustling mango markets, vibrant displays and plenty of delicious sweets. However, there is no official announcement regarding any theme to celebrate National Mango Day.
What is the meaning of National Mango Day?
Mango Day has great cultural and culinary importance, as it celebrates the prized tropical fruit, the mango. This day recognizes the sweet and succulent role of the mango in various cultures, where it symbolizes abundance, prosperity and unity. It highlights the rich diversity of mango varieties, promoting their nutritional value and versatility in culinary creations. Mango Day fosters a sense of community, bringing people together to share their love for this beloved fruit through various activities, parties, and events. It also serves as a reminder of the agricultural importance of mango cultivation, encouraging sustainable practices and an environmental appreciation for the growth and production of the fruit.
How to celebrate National Mango Day?
- Host a mango-themed potluck or banquet with friends and family. Prepare a variety of dishes that feature mango as the main ingredient, such as mango salsa, mango lassi, mango chutney, and mango curry.
- Host a mango tasting event where you explore different varieties of mangoes. Compare the flavors, textures, and sweetness levels of various types of mangoes from different regions.
- Host a dessert party focused solely on mango-based delicacies. Offer mango ice cream, mango sorbet, mango mousse and mango cheesecake for all to enjoy.
- Get together with friends or colleagues to learn how to make refreshing mango smoothies. Experiment with various ingredients like yogurt, honey, and other fruits to create unique mixes.
- Host a mango-themed craft workshop for kids and adults. Create mango-scented art, decorations, or even candles.
- Head outside with a basket full of mango delights and enjoy a relaxing mango-themed picnic in a park or on the beach.
- Host fun mango-themed games and contests, such as mango eating contests, mango trivia quizzes, or mango-themed charades.
- Participate in the conservation of the environment by planting mango trees. Gather a group of friends or volunteers to contribute to the greenery and production of more mangoes in the future.
- If you have access to a mango farm or orchard, plan a visit to learn about mango growing, harvesting, and processing.
- Partner with local charities or food banks to distribute mangoes to those less fortunate. Take advantage of the day to spread happiness and share the joy of enjoying this delicious fruit with those in need.
Some interesting facts about mangoes
- Mangoes are believed to have originated in South Asia, specifically in the region of India, Myanmar (Burma), and Bangladesh. They have been cultivated for more than 4,000 years.
- Mango is the national fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines, signifying its cultural and culinary importance in these countries.
- There are more than 1,000 different varieties of mangoes, each varying in flavor, size, shape and color. Some well-known varieties include Alphonso, Haden, Kent, Keitt and Tommy Atkins.
- Mango trees bloom once a year and produce fragrant flowers. These flowers are often used in traditional Indian celebrations and rituals.
- India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world, accounting for approximately 40% of global production.
- Mangoes belong to the same botanical family (Anacardiaceae) as cashews and pistachios. They are also related to sumac and poison ivy.
- In Indian mythology, mangoes are often associated with love and fertility. They are considered symbols of prosperity and good fortune.
- Mangoes continue to ripen after being picked from the tree. Placing them in a paper bag at room temperature can speed up the ripening process.
- In some cultures, mango leaves are used for various purposes, such as festive decorations, religious ceremonies, and even as a traditional remedy for certain ailments.
- In 1987, the then President of India, Dr. Abdul Kalam, developed a new variety of mango known as “Saffron Mango” by crossing two varieties of mangoes.
- Mango peels have been found to contain bioactive compounds that have potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mangoes are a rich source of essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. These nutrients support general health and immune function.
- Mangoes are full of antioxidants, including carotenoids like beta-carotene and flavonoids like quercetin, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
- Mangos are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes regularity of bowel movements. They can also help prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
- The vitamin C content in mangoes supports the immune system, helping the body fight infections and diseases.
- The vitamin A and beta-carotene in mango are beneficial for skin health. They contribute to the repair, hydration and protection of the skin against damage from UV rays.
- Mangoes contain nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for maintaining eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in mangos are associated with better heart health. They help reduce cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure.
- Despite having an acidic taste, mangoes have an alkalizing effect on the body. Consuming mangoes can help maintain the body’s acid-base balance.
- Mangoes are relatively low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet, especially for those looking to control their weight.
- Mangoes are high in water content, which helps keep the body hydrated and can be beneficial, especially in hot weather.
- Mangos contain vitamin K, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Mangos have global appeal and their sweet, juicy flavor makes them a favorite fruit for many people around the world. From their cultural importance to their nutritional value, mangoes have captured the hearts and taste buds of people on all continents for thousands of years. No matter how you choose to celebrate Mango Day, the focus should be on enjoying the sweetness of this tropical fruit while fostering a sense of community and appreciation for nature’s bounty. Happy mango day!!
Important days and dates in July 2023
Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: ptivs2.edu.vn