Staff Reporter
Mapusa
Miyazaki mango, considered one of the most expensive mango varieties in the world selling at Rs 2.70–Rs 3 lakh per kilo, has been successfully grown by engineer-turned-farmer Rajesh Dhargalkar at his farm in Oxel, Siolim. The rare Japanese variety has not only taken root but has also begun yielding fruit, setting a benchmark for mango cultivation in Goa.
Also known as Taiyo-no-Tamago or Eggs of Sunshine, the Miyazaki mango is celebrated globally for its stunning colour, silky texture, and nutritional punch packed with vitamins A and C. Dhargalkar, inspired by a video of a Madhya Pradesh farmer growing the fruit, teamed up with his friend Mahendra Pednekar of Assonora to bring seven saplings from West Bengal to Goan soil.
“Of the seven saplings, five have started bearing fruit this year,” beamed Dhargalkar, who traded his hard hat as a civil engineer for farming boots to pursue his agricultural dreams. “These mangoes aren’t just luxurious treats; they’re a health treasure packed with antioxidants that boost well-being.”
He wasn’t alone in his ambition. “My friend Dr Snehal Goltekar (additional IG Prisons) and I both decided to experiment on our farms. After three and a half years of nurturing, my trees are now bearing ripe fruit. Snehal’s will follow soon,” Dhargalkar said.
Looking ahead, Dhargalkar plans to share the bounty beyond his own farm. “I want to start grafting this variety because mango farming isn’t just about enjoying the fruit — it’s a real opportunity to create revenue if scaled up,” he said, calling on local farmers to embrace innovation.
Goltekar, who has been inspired by Dhargalkar’s passion, echoed his sentiments. “Rajesh has been a driving force in pushing me towards agriculture. Now I’m thrilled to see the first fruits on my farm too,” Goltekar shared.
Appealing to Goa’s youth, he said, “We need the next generation to take up agriculture, explore new varieties, and help strengthen the nation while
protecting the planet.”
With the rare Miyazaki mango now thriving on Goan soil, Dhargalkar’s farm has become a symbol of innovation and determination — proving that even the most elite crops can flourish with vision, persistence, and a touch of
local spirit.
