Mysuru: Even before the mango season peaks, prices of Raspuri variety, among the most popular ones in Mysuru, have dropped sharply in retail markets. Traders and mango lovers said prices have fallen from around Rs 90–100 per kg to nearly Rs 50 per kg, with several other varieties now selling for under Rs 100 per kg. Vendors said mangoes arrived in city markets earlier than usual this year, keeping prices lower than in previous years. Traders expect rates to fall further in the coming weeks as supply increases and the market faces a possible glut.Banganapalli is selling at Rs 60–70 per kg, while Dasheri is priced between Rs 90 and Rs 100 per kg. Growers said prices usually start falling only after the third week of May, but have remained moderate much earlier this season.Mahadeva, a grower from Hinkal, said middlemen control the market, affecting farmers’ returns. Sellers in MG Road Market and Devaraja Market said prices have crashed over the last few days, even as supply is only moderate and demand is weak.Seller Assaduddin said demand may be hit by public concern over allegations of chemical ripening. Ravigowda, a grower from Lalithadripura on Mysuru’s outskirts, said the overall yield is lower this year, but he hoped rainfall over the last two days may help improve prices.
