Pune Residents Embrace Tradition of Indulging in Alphonso Mangoes for New Year Festivities
As the Gudi Padwa festival approaches, Pune’s markets are abuzz with activity, with vendors showcasing an abundance of Devgad and Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes to cater to the high demand during this auspicious occasion.
For many residents like Swati Paranjape, the tradition of relishing Devgad Alphonso mangoes during Gudi Padwa holds immense significance, symbolizing the commencement of the New Year. This cultural practice is deeply ingrained in the traditions of Maharashtra, drawing people from across the state to partake in the festivities.
However, amidst the excitement, consumers like Mahesh Rathi emphasize the importance of discerning the quality and authenticity of the mangoes being sold. With reports of fraudulent vendors misrepresenting mangoes from other regions as Alphonso (Hapus), it becomes crucial for buyers to exercise caution and ensure they are purchasing genuine produce.
According to Rajesh Kenchi, a mango vendor at Market Yard, the prices of Alphonso mangoes from Konkan currently range between ₹1,200 and ₹1,800 per dozen, reflecting the heightened demand during the Gudi Padwa festivities. He anticipates a potential decrease in prices post-festival as supply stabilizes.
Mangesh Jadhav, another fruit seller at Mahatma Phule Mandai market, notes a substantial increase in mango sales leading up to Gudi Padwa, with daily transactions averaging 10 to 12 dozen mangoes. As the festival approaches, he expects both sales volumes and mango availability to rise further in the coming weeks.
In addition to mangoes, the fervor of Gudi Padwa preparations extends to the flower markets, where consumers are seen thronging to purchase marigolds and other festive blooms. Despite the weekend witnessing marigold prices ranging from ₹80 to ₹100 per kilogram, buyers continue to flock to vendors, adorning their homes with vibrant floral decorations in celebration of the New Year.
