Nawab Fida Hussain of Lucknow brought a unique mango sapling from the area near Shah Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan, and transplanted it in Digha, Patna. The Nawab, known for his abundance of cows, adopted a distinctive method of irrigation: using leftover milk to nurture the mango plants.
Distinctive Delicacy
Dudhiya Maldah mangoes boast a slender seed, ample pulp, and a delicate peel, culminating in a flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. Revered as the crown jewel among mango varieties, Dudhiya Maldah’s reputation extends far beyond the borders of Patna.
Global Acclaim
From heads of state to mango aficionados worldwide, Dudhiya Maldah mango consignments make their way to 33 countries, including the USA, England, Japan, and Dubai. Each year, orders pour in from across the globe, testament to the mango’s unparalleled allure.
Cultivation Challenges
Pramod Kumar, manager of the mango orchard at Bihar Vidyapeeth, reminisces about a time when the Dudhiya Maldah orchard spanned the entire Digha area. However, urbanization has encroached upon the orchard, limiting its expanse to a few pockets.
The White Marvel
Dudhiya Maldah mangoes, characterized by their pale hue, stand out amidst their vibrant counterparts. Notable locations in Patna, including Raj Bhavan, Bihar Vidyapeeth, Saint Xavier’s College, and Kurji Family Hospital, proudly host Dudhiya Maldah trees, a living legacy of bygone eras.
Current Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its illustrious history, Dudhiya Maldah faces challenges posed by climatic fluctuations. Recent heat waves have resulted in diminished yields, raising concerns about the orchard’s sustainability. Bihar Vidyapeeth, home to a 33-acre mango orchard, endeavors to preserve Dudhiya Maldah’s legacy amid dwindling numbers and changing weather patterns.
