Ever heard of a fruit costing more than your favorite video game? Believe it or not, the world of mangoes has its own royal rumble, a battle between the Alphonso from India and the Miyazaki from Japan, both contenders for the title of "Most Expensive Mango in the World." Get ready to be amazed by their sky-high prices, fascinating stories, and the reasons behind their legendary status!

The Alphonso

Imagine a fruit that smells like sunshine and tastes like pure luxury. That's the Alphonso, hailing from the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. Legend has it that a 14th-century Portuguese explorer named Afonso de Albuquerque fell in love with these mangoes, and the name stuck!

Price Tag

Alphonsos are delicate divas. Their short shelf life and meticulous cultivation process make them a rare summer treat. In 2010, an Alphonso from Ratnagiri set a record, fetching a whopping Rs. 1 lakh (approximately $1,300 USD) at auction! That's more than most smartphones! Talk about an exclusive fruit experience!

Also read: A guide to choosing the perfect Indian Mango (travellernook.com)

More than Just a fruit

For Indians, Alphonsos are more than just expensive mangoes. They're a symbol of summer, a reason for family gatherings, and a taste of childhood memories. Imagine sticky fingers, juicy mangoes dripping down your chin, and the laughter of loved ones as you savor this seasonal delight. Alphonsos are often gifted during special occasions, a luxurious token of love and appreciation.

 The Miyazaki Mango

Now, let's travel across Asia to Japan, where the Miyazaki mango reigns supreme. These beauties come from the Miyazaki Prefecture on Kyushu Island. Imagine a fiery red hue, almost like an "Egg of the Sun" (Taiyo no Tamago in Japanese), and a flesh that melts in your mouth with an intense sweetness.

A Price Fit for Royalty

Miyazaki mangoes are the epitome of meticulous care. Farmers ensure ample sunlight, meticulously regulate temperature and humidity, and even hand-pollinate the flowers. This dedication translates to a price tag that can reach tens of thousands of dollars per mango! Imagine owning a fruit that costs more than your dream concert tickets!

A symbol of prestige

In Japan, Miyazaki mangoes are a symbol of prestige and agricultural prowess. Owning one is a way to celebrate craftsmanship and experience the pinnacle of fruit perfection. They're often gifted to business associates or presented as luxurious offerings at Shinto shrines.

So, Who Wins the Bling Battle?

There's no clear winner here! Alphonsos represent a cultural heritage and the joy of summer in India, while Miyazakis showcase the dedication and innovation of Japanese agriculture. The choice depends on your taste and what kind of "bling" you're looking for!

Share Your Mango Story!

Have you ever tried an Alphonso or a Miyazaki mango? Maybe you have a favorite type of mango from your own region? Share your mango stories and photos on social media using #MangoMania and let's celebrate the king (or queen) of summer fruits!

Also read: A bite-sized history of India's beloved mango (travellernook.com)