Nestled in the fertile plains of Uttar Pradesh, where the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati converge at the Sangam in Prayagraj, grows a fruit that is as legendary as the land itself—the Allahabad Surkha Guava. Known for its vibrant apple-red exterior, succulent deep pink flesh, and an irresistible sweet aroma, this guava variety has earned a special place in the hearts of fruit lovers, poets, and travelers alike. Often called “Allahabad Sebiya” or the “City of Green Gold,” the Surkha Guava is not just a fruit but a cultural icon, celebrated with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and immortalized in poetry and folklore.
In This Article:
A Fruit Steeped in History and Mystique
The allure of the Allahabad Surkha Guava transcends its taste, weaving itself into the cultural and literary fabric of the region. In the late 1800s, the renowned poet Akbar Allahabadi famously described the guava as a divine fruit, destined for the land of gods. His words resonate even today, as the Surkha Guava is often hailed as a “heavenly delight” by those fortunate enough to savor it. The fruit’s origins are traced to a chance seedling in Abbubakarpur village in the Allahabad district, making it a unique variety that thrives in the region’s fertile Doab soil, particularly in the Kaushambi and Kaurihar-II districts.
The Surkha Guava’s distinct characteristics set it apart from other guava varieties grown across India. Unlike the typical white-fleshed guavas, the Surkha boasts a deep pink interior, a sweet, strongly flavored taste, and fewer seeds, with a shape slightly depressed at both ends. Its vibrant hue is said to intensify the closer the orchards are to the Sangam, a testament to the unique microclimate and soil of the region.
A Geographical Marvel with a GI Tag
In 2007–08, the Allahabad Surkha Guava was awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique qualities and its deep connection to the Prayagraj region. The GI tag, held by the Allahabad Surkha Amrood Utpadak Welfare Association, underscores the fruit’s exclusivity, as its signature flavor and color cannot be replicated elsewhere. The guava is cultivated across approximately 1,000 hectares, primarily in the Muratganj and Chail blocks of Kaushambi, which have been declared a “fruit belt” by the Uttar Pradesh government. These areas account for 75% of the district’s horticultural production, with about 50 tonnes of Surkha Guavas supplied daily to states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal during the peak season from November to February.
The fruit’s appeal extends beyond India’s borders. In January 2024, the Uttar Pradesh government made history by exporting the first batch of Allahabadi Surkha and its cousin, Allahabadi Safeda, to Oman from Lucknow. This initiative, supported by agricultural scientists and innovative techniques like fruit bagging to enhance size and protect against pests, aims to boost farmers’ earnings and introduce the world to this delectable fruit.
The Surkha Experience: A Sensory Delight
For locals and visitors, the Allahabad Surkha Guava is more than a fruit—it’s an experience. The season begins early each morning, as vendors head to orchards by 5 a.m. to pluck fresh guavas, packing them into vibrant bags that add to the bustling energy of Prayagraj’s markets. At Prayagraj Junction, the heady scent of Surkha Guavas lures train passengers, who often bypass tea or snacks to indulge in the fruit’s sweetness. Its limited availability and short shelf life make it a cherished seasonal treat, often sent as festive gifts, valued more than sweets or dry fruits.
The Surkha Guava’s flavor is matched by its nutritional benefits. Rich in pectin, vitamins C and A, and folic acid, it is also believed to have medicinal properties, particularly in neutralizing disease symptoms during winter. Its robust, dome-shaped trees are vigorous and compact, yielding up to 120 kg of fruit per tree by the sixth year, making it a favorite among farmers.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite its popularity, Surkha Guava farmers face challenges. Erratic weather, pest infestations, and heavy rainfall have occasionally disrupted production. In 2017 and 2018, pest outbreaks and unseasonal rains led to a 35–50% dip in yields, forcing farmers to sell at higher prices (Rs 1,700–1,900 per 20–22 kg basket) and limiting exports. In 2021, extended monsoons caused early flowering, affecting quality and quantity. Farmers have urged government support for better pest control and cultivation techniques to sustain this prized crop.
However, optimism persists. In 2019, cooler winters and high humidity promised a bumper harvest, with production expected to rise by over 50%, allowing farmers to recover losses. The export initiative to Oman and advancements like bagging demonstrate the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting this agricultural gem.
A Fruit Worth Celebrating
The Allahabad Surkha Guava’s significance is celebrated beyond orchards and markets. In 2021, India Post issued a special cover to honor its GI status, a testament to its cultural and economic importance. For those who visit Prayagraj between November and February, a trip is incomplete without savoring the Surkha Guava, ideally paired with a dip in the Sangam and a crate to share with loved ones.
In a world of abundant fruits, the Allahabad Surkha Guava stands out as a symbol of tradition, taste, and terroir. Whether enjoyed fresh, juiced, or as a nostalgic gift, it remains a divine fruit that captures the essence of Prayagraj—a city where nature, culture, and flavor converge in perfect harmony.
-By Manoj H
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