Haji Kalimullah Khan, popularly known as the "Mango Man," is a distinguished Indian horticulturist and fruit breeder renowned for his exceptional work in mango cultivation. Born in Malihabad, Uttar Pradesh, Khan left formal education after the 7th grade to join his family's farming business. Through innovative grafting techniques, he has successfully cultivated over 300 different varieties of mangoes on a single tree. His dedication to horticulture was recognized by the Government of India with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2008.
Khan's expertise in grafting has led to the development of unique mango varieties, some named after prominent personalities such as Sachin Tendulkar, Aishwarya Rai, and Narendra Modi. One of his remarkable creations is the "Anarkali" mango, which features two distinct skins and layers of pulp, each offering a different taste. Beyond his grafting achievements, Khan's farm in Malihabad boasts a staggering collection of approximately 1,600 mango varieties, making it a significant repository of mango diversity.
For a visual insight into his contributions, you might find this video informative:
Mango man of India | Padma Shri Kalimullah Khan | Unsung India Foundation
A phytosanitary procedure involving immersing mangoes in hot water (typically around 46-55°C) for a specific duration to eliminate pests and pathogens, such as fruit flies. This treatment ensures compliance with quarantine regulations and maintains fruit quality during export.
A cooling method where freshly harvested mangoes are submerged in cold water to quickly reduce temperature and preserve quality.