Every year, the golden glow of Devgad and Ratnagiri Hapus lights up the Indian summer. But this year, that sunshine arrived early — before Diwali.
In a surprising and exciting turn of events, the first crates of Devgad Hapus mangoes were dispatched to the Vashi fruit market even before the festive lights were lit. For mango lovers, it’s like summer knocking on the door in the middle of autumn.
🌞 A Rare Sight: Mangoes Before Winter
Typically, Alphonso mangoes — known locally as Hapus — reach the markets in March or April.
However, this year, favorable weather and careful cultivation allowed a small early harvest from select Devgad orchards in Sindhudurg district.
These mangoes are part of a controlled flowering cycle, a result of scientific pruning and natural temperature changes post-monsoon.
Farmers noticed early bud induction in July–August, leading to flowering by September — nearly three months ahead of schedule.
“This early batch is small but perfectly matured — naturally ripened and chemical-free,” say local orchard owners.
🧺 First Crate to Vashi: A Symbol of Season’s Promise
The first crate’s journey — from the lush orchards of Devgad to the bustling Vashi fruit market — has become symbolic. It marks not just the start of another mango season, but a message of freshness, hard work, and innovation from Konkan’s farmers.
Fruit traders report that the early mangoes fetched premium prices, with buyers eager to savor the first taste of the King of Fruits long before the usual summer rush.
🍃 Nature’s Rhythm and Farmer’s Wisdom
While early harvests generate excitement, farmers in both Devgad and Ratnagiri are careful to balance innovation with nature’s rhythm.
Hapus trees require rest and controlled stress cycles to ensure high-quality flowering and fruiting in the main season (January–May).
The early crop is therefore limited — more of a teaser than a full-fledged harvest.
It reflects how microclimate, timing, and traditional wisdom come together to create India’s most loved fruit.
🥭 What This Means for Mango Lovers
For mango enthusiasts, this early Devgad batch is a reminder of what’s coming:
- The rich aroma and sweetness unique to Konkan mangoes.
- The promise of freshness that no other variety can match.
- And the anticipation of the grand Ratnagiri Hapus season ahead.
So, while the rest of India celebrates Diwali with sweets and lights, the Konkan coast quietly celebrates with the first slice of golden Hapus — a taste of the summer to come.
✨ Looking Ahead: The King Will Return in Full Glory
As winter approaches, the trees in Ratnagiri and Devgad are preparing for their main flowering phase.
By late December, orchards will be covered in panicles — the delicate blossoms that promise the next season’s treasures.
And by April, the markets will be flooded once again with crates of golden Ratnagiri Hapus — fragrant, juicy, and ready to reign.
