Dilliwallah's dil mango more

Feasting on mangoes is a must for all foodies during summers. In an attempt to diversify the variety of mangoes that are available in the country capital, the Office of the Resident Commissioner-West Bengal has organised the third edition of annual Mango Mela at Dilli Haat, INA.

Set up at the AC Lounge of Dilli Haat, the organisers have creatively put up sign-boards and hoardings directing one and all to the Mango Mela, that has generated a huge amount of interest since June 23.

As soon as one enters the lounge, the delectable fragrance of mangoes immediately tempts one to grab a bite from the huge variety of mangoes from West Bengal.

From Himsagar, Laxmanbhog and Langra to Bharati, Laxmibhog and Gulabkhas, the festival is taking mango fans on a mouthwatering fruity journey.

Happy and satisfied with this journey were Amit Gupta, his wife Komal and son Kartik, who were on a regular visit to the Haat but were pleasantly surprised to find themselves in the midst of the ongoing Mango Mela.

“We really like the idea of having something like a Mango Mela in the city. The taste of these mangoes is very different and they have been priced reasonably too,” says Gupta.
“Moreover, my son is a big fan of mangoes and attending a mela for his favourite fruit is nothing less than a delicious treat for him!”

Sharing similar enthusiasm was Arundhati Koer with her husband Alok –a couple from Assam– on their annual visit to the city during the summer vacations. Hailing from the West Bengal’s neighbouring state, the couple had a different take on the variety of mangoes at the Mela.

“The sweet-sour flavour of the Langra mango is much better here,” says Alok in between juicy bites of the luscious Langra in his hand.

However, the couple found the mangoes priced higher than the market rates. Nonetheless, they bought a bagful of mangoes for their daughter, who resides in the city.

“We visit Delhi every year, and make sure that Dilli Haat is a part of our holiday schedule. The organisers always surprise us with something new and Mango Mela is something really creative and innovative on the part of the West Bengal Government.

We will recommend it as a must-visit to all Delhiites,” Arundhati tells Metrolife. Well as delightful as it sounds, the king of fruits does win our hearts and tastebuds with its sweet-tangy flavour and variety. For all those who have a soft corner for mangoes, this is the time to be part of the Mango Mela. The mango fest is on at Dilli Haat, INA, till July 5.