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A mango variety from Odisha is drawing attention online for its unusual colonial-era roots linked to a Scottish businessman and the royal family of Mayurbhanj.
News18
A mango from Odisha is drawing attention online after people shared the little-known story behind its colonial-era roots and unique connection to Mayurbhanj’s history.
The mango, called Hamilton Sundari, was recently highlighted in a post that explained how the variety first began cultivation in the 1930s. The post described it as a mango known for its strong aroma, bright colour and rich taste, while also carrying a piece of Odisha’s heritage.
The Story Behind Hamilton Sundari Mango
The post was shared by an X user who wrote, “Did you know Odisha has a mango variety with a fascinating colonial-era history!! Meet Hamilton Sundari – a unique mango known for its rich aroma, vibrant colour, and exceptional taste.”
According to the post, the mango traces its roots back to Sir Daniel Hamilton, a Scottish businessman and philanthropist associated with the royal family of Mayurbhanj. During the 1930s, he reportedly helped establish orchards and nurseries near Baripada in Odisha, where this mango variety was first cultivated.
The user added that Hamilton Sundari is “more than just a mango” and represents a mix of Odisha’s “history, heritage, and flavour.”
In the comments section, the user clarified that the mango was recently displayed during a zonal conference in Bhubaneswar organised by the Directorate of Horticulture.
Did you know Odisha has a mango variety with a fascinating colonial-era history!!Meet Hamilton Sundari – a unique mango known for its rich aroma, vibrant colour, and exceptional taste.
Its story goes back to the 1930s, when Sir Daniel Hamilton, a Scottish visionary associated… pic.twitter.com/1k4l79oTaI
— Manas Muduli (@manas_muduli) May 20, 2026
As people discovered the story online, many users expressed surprise at the mango’s history.
“Not just a mango variety, but a slice of Mayurbhanj’s heritage. Proud to know this story,” a user wrote.
Another commented, “Wow! What a fascinating nugget!”
A different user pointed out, “Its a variation of the Sundari mango grown in South India.”
Another Post Shares More Details
A second post by food consultant and content creator Akash Mohanty also added more information about the mango variety.
Mohanty explained that Hamilton Sundari is mainly grown in the Mayurbhanj district, especially around Baripada. He said the mango is a mid-season variety that usually ripens in May.
He also spoke about Sir Daniel MacKinnon Hamilton’s role in setting up the orchard. Hamilton is remembered for his work in rural development and cooperative movements in India, especially in the Sundarbans region.
Mohanty wrote that the orchard later became an important part of the local agricultural economy and helped preserve the region’s farming legacy.
The post also mentioned that horticulturalists know the mango by another name, “Subhadra.” According to him, this variety is different from other Sundari mangoes found in Odisha and other states, which is why it is sold at a higher price.
What Makes The Mango Different
The detailed post listed several features of the Hamilton Sundari mango. It said the fruit is medium-sized, weighing around 180 to 250 grams, with a red blush on the peel and dark orange flesh inside.
The mango is also said to have a long shelf life of over 16 days. Mohanty described its flavour as “moderately sweet & extreme sweet.”
The post further highlighted its nutritional value, mentioning sugar content, Vitamin C levels and carotenoids.
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