The Japanese Miyazaki mango, recognised as the world’s costliest variety, was offered to Lord Ram at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya for the first time on June 16. This unique mango, often referred to as the “Egg of the Sun,” is valued between Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 3 lakh per kilogram in the international market. A single Miyazaki mango is estimated to cost around Rs 1 lakh, highlighting its status as one of the priciest mangoes globally.

The offering took place on Monday, following the customs of the region, where the fruit was presented alongside a Tulsi leaf as part of the ritual. This occasion marks a significant moment in the cultural and agricultural landscape of Ayodhya.

Omprakash Singh, a local farmer, cultivated the Miyazaki mango and planted the tree approximately two years ago, assessing its compatibility with Ayodhya’s climate. He reported that the tree has flourished, producing nearly a dozen fruits this season, each weighing between 150 grams and 300 grams.

Cultural Significance of the Offering

According to Singh, the Miyazaki mango is celebrated for its exceptional sweetness, high fibre content, and nutritional value. He elaborated on the mango’s characteristics, stating, “This is a very famous mango from Japan that is much sweeter than other varieties.” The first ripe mango was offered to the deity, in line with a longstanding tradition of dedicating the inaugural harvest to the divine through one’s Guru.

In addition to the Miyazaki mango, Singh’s orchard features a diverse selection of both domestic and international mango varieties, such as Thailand’s ‘Banana Mango,’ Australia’s ‘R2E2,’ and Indian staples like ‘Chaunsa’ and ‘Dasheri.’ The presence of these various cultivars adds further richness to the agricultural practices in the region.

Mahant Sitaram Das Ji Maharaj visited Singh’s orchard and emphasised the importance of offering the first harvest to the divine. He described the mango as the “king of fruits” and highlighted its symbolic colour that resembles the Sun God. His remarks underscored the significance of this offering as a unique occasion that connects local traditions with agricultural accomplishments.

Impact on Local Horticulture

The cultivation of the Miyazaki mango in Ayodhya has attracted attention from horticulture enthusiasts and local devotees, marking a notable addition to the region’s agricultural scene. The introduction of this premium Japanese mango variety is seen as a reflection of the area’s potential for agricultural diversification.

Reports indicate that the plant’s success could encourage other farmers in the area to explore similar cultivation ventures, thereby positively impacting the local economy. The event reinforces Ayodhya’s status as not only a religious centre but also a growing agricultural hub.

As the first Miyazaki mango was presented to Lord Ram, hopes are that more of these fruits will be cultivated and offered as Prasad in future seasons. This development could lead to a richer cultural narrative surrounding the region’s produce and its ties to religious practices.

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