The colour that became a name
Junagadh’s saffron-coloured mango carries the memory of growers, a horticulturist and a nawab.
Kesar — Vanthali and Junagadh, Gujarat
Documented history
Before Kesar became a famous name, historical accounts call the mango Sale Bhai ni Ambadi. Reporting based on Junagadh Agricultural University’s work describes grafts being spread from its mother tree and moved to the state’s Sakkar Bagh and Lal Dhori gardens. Horticulturist Ayengar studied the fruit there.
The same account dates its naming to 25 May 1934: Junagadh’s Nawab Mahabat Khan recognised the saffron colour of the ripe pulp and called it Kesar. The fruit’s name makes that moment visible every time it is cut open. Gir Kesar also names a place: the growing country around Gir, whose particular reputation received geographical-indication recognition.
The names it answers to
- Kesar
- Saffron: the colour behind the recorded naming account.
- Gir Kesar
- The regional identity associated with the Gir growing area.
- Sale Bhai ni Ambadi
- Earlier name preserved in the historical account reported from Junagadh.