A Seed of Legacy: The Story of Hanu Reddy Raghava Farms
Over six decades ago, a man named Shri Chirla Raghava Reddy embarked on a journey that would become a verdant paradise. He purchased a plot of land and planted the first mango tree. This land, destined to be known as Hanu Reddy Raghava Farms, was about to unfold its delicious destiny.
Initially, the farm was a blend of Sapota, Coconut, Jackfruit, Cashew trees, Teak, Neem, Tamarind, and Eucalyptus. In addition, Mr. Raghava Reddy's resourcefulness led him to plant Casuarina trees for his construction business.
Today, the farm boasts over 2,000 mango trees and 1,000 flowering trees, palms, bamboo, cacti, and timber. This transformation is a masterpiece of biodiversity, a lush arboretum teeming with life. It stands as a vibrant arboretum, a testament to Raghava Reddy’s vision. The Banganapalli mango is the star, supported by varieties like Rasalu, Neelam, Totapuri, Jahangir, Rumani, and Mallika.
In 1996, Mr. Hanu Reddy vowed not to cut a single tree, nurturing a haven for peacocks, storks, and deer. The farm became a protector of nature's symphony, with rainwater harvesting, a variety garden, and a rock garden adding unique touches to the landscape.
In 2016, a storm felled many trees, but from this adversity, a 156-foot-long table was crafted from the fallen Casuarina and Eucalyptus trees. This table is a creation of Hanu Reddy Studios. The symbol of resilience now stands under a 70-year-old mango orchard, a testament to the founder's philosophy of creating value from waste, inviting people to gather and celebrate.
The farm's location, next to the Kayar Reserve Forest, enhances its charm. It's a place where nature is in control, offering a serene and sensory-rich experience.
But the story doesn't end at the farm's boundaries…
Every year, through The Great Mango Festival, Hanu Reddy Mango Tourism celebrates this rich legacy. Held in the heart of the 70-year-old mango orchard, the festival is a vibrant ode to the king of fruits and the land it grows on.
"It's not just about mangoes," says Mr. Hanu Reddy, "It's about celebrating the soul of our land and the traditions that have nourished us for generations." Every aspect of the farm, from sustainable practices to soulful experiences, reflects this commitment.
His vision extends beyond the farm, dreaming of India's mango tourism becoming a global phenomenon, similar to Japan's cherry blossom festival. He envisions farmers selling experiences, not just produce, enhancing their value and contributing to the economy.
Looking ahead, Mr. Hanu Reddy has a bold vision – to see Indian mango tourism on the global bucket list. The Great Mango Festival is a step towards achieving this dream, honoring the legacy of Shri Chirla Raghava Reddy while showcasing the land's beauty and bounty.
This is the story of Hanu Reddy Raghava Farms, a testament to tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to the land. It's a story that continues to be written, a delicious legacy waiting to be savored by generations to come.