Which description of Ibn Battuta about mango is not true ?

The correct answer is - Mango was entirely grown by grafting

Key Points

• Historical context of Ibn Battuta's observations
  • Ibn Battuta, a renowned 14th-century Moroccan traveler, documented his observations of mangoes during his visit to India.
  • He described mangoes as being of the size of a large pear and noted their cultural and culinary significance in the region.
• Mango propagation methods during Ibn Battuta's time
  • In the 14th century, mangoes were primarily propagated by seeding, and grafting techniques were either not widely known or used sparingly.
  • Therefore, the statement that mangoes were "entirely grown by grafting" is incorrect.
• Eating habits related to mangoes
  • Ibn Battuta observed that people ate mangoes by either cutting them with a knife or sucking the pulp, which is consistent with traditional practices still followed today.

Additional Information

• Mango propagation techniques
  • Mango propagation involves two primary methods: seeding and grafting.
  • Seeding: Commonly used in earlier times, this method involves planting mango seeds directly to grow trees. However, the fruits produced are not always true to the parent variety.
  • Grafting: A more advanced technique that ensures the new plant inherits the desired traits of the parent plant. This method became popular in later centuries for commercial mango cultivation.
• Ibn Battuta's travel records
  • Ibn Battuta's travelogue, "Rihla," provides a detailed account of his experiences and observations of various cultures, foods, and practices, making it a valuable historical document.
  • His description of mangoes highlights the fruit's prominence in Indian society and cuisine during the 14th century.
• Mango's cultural significance
  • Mangoes are considered the "King of Fruits" in India and hold cultural, religious, and culinary importance.
  • The fruit has been cultivated in India for thousands of years and continues to be a symbol of abundance and prosperity.