Chanakyapuri hosted a vibrant two-day mango extravaganza, ‘Khass-ye-Aam’, organized by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) at the Palika Services Officers’ Institute on July 5–6. This year’s theme celebrated India’s agricultural diversity, showcasing over 500 distinct mango varieties from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Bihar, and beyond – a record-breaking display of the nation’s beloved fruit.

Farmers, cooperatives, and premier research bodies like ICAR‑CISH (Lucknow) and ICAR‑IARI (New Delhi) brought over 300 cultivars, including famed and rare types such as Arunika, Ambika, Sansesan, Tomy Atkins, Fajali, Langra, Lucknow Safeda, Chausa, Amrapali, and Malika. Visitors indulged in fresh tastes, sampled juices, chutneys, pickles, murabba, and artisanal beverages at over 25 vendor stalls.

The festival emphasized cultural enrichment and rural empowerment in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. NDMC Vice‑Chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal highlighted its role in fostering farmer‑consumer engagement and agri‑innovation.

A unique tasting competition allowed chefs, scientists, and mango lovers to judge categories like Dashehari and Amrapali. Guests also browsed saplings offered for sale and enjoyed live cultural performances and interactive quizzes.