Appearance:
Color: A distinct feature is its striking color, often displaying a mix of golden yellow, red, and bright green hues when ripe. The "cheeks" or shoulders of the fruit frequently exhibit a saturated red blush.
Shape: It's typically small to medium-sized, with a uniform round to oval shape and blunt, curved ends.
Skin: The skin is thin, smooth, and taut, and may have some white to dark brown spots.
Flavor Profile & Aroma:
Taste: Lalbagh (Sindhura) mangoes are renowned for their intense sweetness with a pleasant tangy and slightly acidic undertone. They have a rich, tropical taste with hints of honey and sometimes even subtle spice.
Aroma: Ripe Lalbagh mangoes have a fragrant and sweet aroma, often described as reminiscent of apricots and honey. This aroma becomes more pronounced as the fruit ripens.
Texture:
Flesh: The flesh is dense, creamy, and succulent, with a melting consistency. It's generally non-fibrous or has very minimal fiber, which makes it highly enjoyable for direct consumption.
Juiciness: It's a juicy mango, contributing to its refreshing quality.
Size & Weight:
Lalbagh (Sindhura) mangoes typically weigh between 150 to 300 grams.
Seasonality & Availability:
This is an early-season mango variety, widely available during the Indian summer. Its peak season generally runs from mid-April through June, though it can appear as early as late December in some regions like Kerala, and extend until the end of May in others.
Other Notable Characteristics:
Regional Names: As mentioned, it's known by various regional names across India, including Sindhura, Rajgira, Senthoora, Senthura, Sendura, and Lalpari.
Culinary Uses: Its sweet, juicy, and relatively fiber-free pulp makes it versatile. It's excellent for:
Fresh consumption: Eaten directly, sliced, or in fruit salads.
Juices and Smoothies: Its juiciness and sweet flavor make it perfect for beverages.
Desserts: Used in traditional Indian desserts like "aamras," ice creams, jams, and preserves.
Nutritional Value: Like other mango varieties, Lalbagh (Sindhura) mangoes are a good source of vitamins (especially A and C), minerals (potassium, magnesium, iron), and dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health and immunity.
Adaptability: This variety is favored by growers for its ability to tolerate extreme weather conditions, including heat and humidity.
Popularity: Due to its beautiful appearance, delicious taste, and versatility, it's a very popular and eagerly awaited mango in many parts of India.
In summary, the Lalbagh (Sindhura) mango is a highly prized Indian mango known for its striking red and yellow coloration, intensely sweet and tangy flavor, smooth and juicy flesh, and delightful aroma, making it a favorite for fresh consumption and various culinary creations.