Mango Man of India: UP man grows 300 different mangoes on a single tree

Of the many things that put India on a global pedestal, mangoes hold a special place for their rich flavour, remarkable variety and deep cultural significance.

And few people have celebrated this beloved fruit quite like India’s "Mango Man." Yes, you read that right! An Uttar Pradesh man, who is a renowned mango cultivator, is famous for developing hundreds of mango varieties using remarkable grafting techniques.

His work has not only transformed mango cultivation in India but has also brought international attention to the art of fruit breeding.

Who is the Mango Man of India?

Haji Kalimullah Khan, often called the “Mango Man of India”, is a horticulturist and fruit breeder from Malihabad near Lucknow.

Born into a farming family, Khan left formal education at an early age and devoted himself to agriculture and mango cultivation.

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Over the years, he became widely recognised for his ability to graft multiple mango varieties onto a single tree. His dedication earned him the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2008 for his contribution to Indian horticulture.

Khan grows over 300 different kinds of mangoes on a single tree

One of Khan’s most astonishing achievements is a centuries-old mango tree in his orchard that produces more than 300 different varieties of mangoes.

Through advanced grafting methods, he successfully grew mangoes of varying colours, shapes, sizes and flavours on a single tree.

This extraordinary tree has become a symbol of agricultural creativity and scientific curiosity. Visitors from across India and abroad travel to Malihabad to witness this botanical wonder.

He has named mangoes after famous personalities including Narendra Modi, Sachin Tendulkar, Aishwarya Rai

Khan is also known for naming his newly developed mango varieties after prominent personalities from India and around the world. Some varieties have been named after Sachin Tendulkar, Aishwarya Rai, Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he even created and named new varieties “Doctor Aam” and “Police Aam” to honour frontline workers and healthcare professionals.

His naming tradition reflects both creativity and his desire to connect mango cultivation with contemporary culture and public life.

All about Malihabad: The Mango Capital of India

Khan’s orchard is located in Malihabad, a region in Uttar Pradesh famous for its Dussehri mangoes.

While Malda is the Mango City of India, Malihabad is often referred to as the "Mango Capital of India" as it garners attention for being one of the best mango belts to exist in the country, thanks to its vast orchards and ideal climate for mango cultivation.

Malihabad contributes significantly to India’s mango production and is known for producing premium-quality fruit enjoyed across the country.