Malkangiri, May 25: A rare variety of Japanese Miyazaki mango, considered among the world’s costliest fruits, has been successfully cultivated in Odisha’s tribal-dominated Malkangiri district. The exotic mangoes, grown by tribal youth Deba Madkami of Tamasa village, are valued at nearly Rs 1 lakh per kilogram, leaving the farmer worried over finding suitable buyers.

The Miyazaki mango, known for its bright red colour, attractive appearance and premium quality, is largely cultivated in Japan. Popularly called “Taiyo-no-Tamago” or “Egg of the Sun,” the fruit commands an exceptionally high price in international markets. Each mango grown in Deba’s orchard weighs nearly two kilograms and is estimated to cost around Rs 2 lakh.

According to Deva Madkami, the sapling was given to him four years ago by Sarba Kumar Bisoyi of Malkangiri, who had sourced it from Bhubaneswar. As Bisoyi lacked space in his own garden, he advised Deva to plant the sapling in his orchard. After years of care, the tree has now borne 17 Miyazaki mangoes.

The rare fruit has become a major attraction in the area, with people visiting the village daily to catch a glimpse of the expensive mangoes and click photographs. However, despite the growing curiosity, Deba said he has not yet found buyers for the fruit.

Considering the high value of the mangoes, the farmer has taken strict security measures around the tree. The area has been fenced and visitors are only allowed to view the fruits from a distance.

Experts believe the successful cultivation of Miyazaki mangoes in the plateau region of Malkangiri could open new possibilities for exotic fruit farming in the district. However, Deba says marketing and protecting the costly fruit remain major challenges as the mangoes begin to ripen.