Pomegranate, often referred to as the “Fruit of Paradise”, is one of the most cherished fruits in India due to its nutritional, medicinal, and commercial value. Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamins (C, K, B6), and rich red arils, pomegranates have high demand in both domestic and international markets.
India is the largest producer of pomegranates globally, with major cultivation in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan. Indian farmers grow different varieties that vary in terms of color, taste, size, yield, and resistance to diseases.
This article highlights the top pomegranate varieties grown in India, detailing their characteristics, regions of cultivation, and commercial uses.
1. Bhagwa
Bhagwa is the most popular and commercially grown pomegranate variety in India. Known for its bright red arils and high yield, it has excellent market demand domestically and internationally.
- Aril Color: Bright red
- Fruit Weight: 300–500 grams
- Regions: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat
- Characteristics:
- Sweet, juicy arils with a soft seed
- Thick rind (suitable for transport)
- High yield and disease resistance
- Uses: Table fruit, juice, export
2. Ganesh
Ganesh is an early-maturing variety developed by the University of Pune. It is known for its soft seeds and pleasant flavor, making it a preferred choice for table consumption.
- Aril Color: Pinkish-red
- Fruit Weight: 250–300 grams
- Regions: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu
- Characteristics:
- Medium-sized fruits with soft seeds
- High sweetness and juice content
- Uses: Fresh consumption, juice
3. Mridula
Mridula is a high-yielding variety developed by IIHR (Indian Institute of Horticultural Research). It is grown for its deep red arils and high juice content.
- Aril Color: Deep red
- Fruit Weight: 200–250 grams
- Regions: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra
- Characteristics:
- High juice recovery (30–40%)
- Resistant to splitting and pests
- Uses: Juice, table fruit
4. Arakta
Arakta is a medium-yielding variety popular for its deep red arils and sweet flavor. It is grown extensively for domestic markets.
- Aril Color: Dark red
- Fruit Weight: 200–300 grams
- Regions: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan
- Characteristics:
- Attractive, deep red arils
- Soft seeds and good sweetness
- Uses: Table fruit, juice
5. Ruby
Ruby is a high-quality variety known for its brilliant red arils and high market appeal. It is grown in semi-arid regions of India.
- Aril Color: Bright red
- Fruit Weight: 250–400 grams
- Regions: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat
- Characteristics:
- Glossy appearance with high sweetness
- Moderate disease resistance
- Uses: Fresh consumption, export
6. Jyoti
Jyoti is a variety known for its soft seeds and high yield. It is grown in regions with moderate temperatures and low humidity.
- Aril Color: Light pink
- Fruit Weight: 200–250 grams
- Regions: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- Soft seeds with good flavor
- Moderate tolerance to pests
- Uses: Table fruit, juice
7. Dholka
Dholka is an indigenous variety known for its large fruit size and high juice content. It is one of the oldest cultivated varieties in India.
- Aril Color: Pinkish-red
- Fruit Weight: 400–800 grams
- Regions: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh
- Characteristics:
- Large fruits with soft seeds
- High juice recovery
- Uses: Fresh consumption, juice
8. Jalore Seedless
Jalore Seedless is a unique variety developed for its seedless arils. It is highly valued for its taste and market appeal.
- Aril Color: Red
- Fruit Weight: 200–300 grams
- Regions: Rajasthan, Gujarat
- Characteristics:
- Seedless or very soft seeds
- Sweet, juicy arils
- Uses: Table fruit, fresh consumption
9. Kandhari
Kandhari is a variety known for its tart-sweet flavor and hard rind, which makes it ideal for processing and storage.
- Aril Color: Dark red
- Fruit Weight: 300–500 grams
- Regions: Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh
- Characteristics:
- High juice content with a tangy flavor
- Hard rind for longer shelf life
- Uses: Juice, processing
10. Bedana
Bedana is an indigenous variety cultivated for its soft seeds and high sweetness. It is widely grown in the northern states of India.
- Aril Color: Pinkish-red
- Fruit Weight: 200–250 grams
- Regions: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar
- Characteristics:
- Soft seeds with sweet pulp
- Tolerant to pests and diseases
- Uses: Table fruit, fresh consumption
Conclusion
India’s diverse climate and soil conditions allow the cultivation of a wide range of pomegranate varieties. From the commercially successful Bhagwa to the seedless Jalore, Indian farmers have numerous options to suit both domestic and international markets. Pomegranate farming not only provides significant profits but also meets the increasing demand for nutritious and health-enhancing fruits.
FAQs
Q1: Which pomegranate variety is the most popular in India?
A: Bhagwa is the most popular pomegranate variety due to its bright red arils, high sweetness, and excellent market demand.
Q2: Which variety of pomegranate is seedless?
A: Jalore Seedless is a seedless pomegranate variety with soft and juicy arils.
Q3: What is the best pomegranate variety for juice production?
A: Mridula and Kandhari are ideal for juice production due to their high juice content.
Q4: Which states are the largest producers of pomegranates in India?
A: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu are the largest producers of pomegranates in India.
Q5: Which variety of pomegranate is suitable for export?
A: Bhagwa and Ruby are highly preferred for export due to their bright red arils, thick rind, and long shelf life.
