Book Review: ‘Mangifera indica’ by Sopan Joshi

Book Title: Mangifera indica: A Biography of the Mango
Author: Sopan Joshi
Publisher: Aleph Book Company
Number of Pages: 432
ISBN: 978-9395853774
Date Published: Jul. 8, 2024
Price: INR 546

Book Review

India’s most popular tropical fruit, the mango, is explored in depth and fascinatingly in “Mangifera indica: A Biography of the Mango” by Sopan Joshi. Mangoes have been an integral part of Indian culture for over 5,000 years, during which time they have come to represent fertility, prosperity, and love. This book explores the fascinating history of mangoes, which were formerly prized as royal fruits and served at kings’ and nobility’s courts. The story masterfully describes how cross-breeding by rulers like as Akbar and Jahangir led to the development of new mango types, which in turn became a valuable commodity in medieval trade, eventually making its way to Europe and the Americas via Portuguese explorers.

The book effectively illustrates the mango’s essential role in Indian society, making it more than merely a historical description. Mango culture is deeply ingrained in Indian culture, with representations of the tree appearing in literature, art, and religious ceremonies. This includes the fruits and leaves of the tree. Readers are transported from historic orchards to vibrant marketplaces brimming with the perfume of ripe mangoes thanks to the author’s painstaking research and captivating writing.

The book explores the cultural and historical significance of mangoes in India, focusing on their role in religious ceremonies and diplomacy. It delves into the co-evolution of mangoes and humans over 4,500 million years, and explores the diverse mango types in India, revealing the experiences of producers, dealers, and consumers. The book also delves into the genetic variety of mango trees, cultivation obstacles, and the passion of producers. The book also discusses the role of Jesuit missionaries in promoting the mango variety and the influence of British colonization on the mango trade. The book provides insights into the genetic studies underlying mango production and the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology for successful cultivation.

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“Mangifera indica” is a detailed treatise that explores the mango’s historical, cultural, and agricultural significance. It dives into the botanical features, genetic characteristics, and problems of mango farming, such as pests, illnesses, and environmental changes. The book also investigates mangoes’ political and social utility, therapeutic properties, and worldwide effects. By exploring the various species of mangoes and the expansion of agricultural practices, the book presents a comprehensive picture of this beloved fruit, making it a must-read for everyone interested in the mango’s significant impact in India and elsewhere.

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