• Local name: Nanjanagudu Rasabale.
• Type: Special variety of banana.
• Origin: Nanjangud, Mysore district, Karnataka.
• Known for its unique taste and aroma.
• GI Tag No.: 29.
• GI registration: 2005.

Agriculture & Growing Conditions

• Cultivation requires specific soil and climatic conditions.
• Mainly grown around Devarasanahalli village near Nanjangud.
• Traditional farming practices and the natural environment are important for maintaining quality.
• Requires black saline alluvial soil naturally formed along the banks of the Kapila (Kabini) River.
• The distinctive taste and aroma are believed by experts to be related to its genetic characteristics.

Fruit Characteristics

• Small-sized compared with other bananas.
• Length: approximately 5–8 cm.
• Diameter of middle portion: approximately 2–3 cm.
• Thin peel.
• Buttery-soft pulp.
• Usually eaten without the peel.
• When organically grown and fully ripe, the peel can also be eaten or used separately as a vegetable.

Importance & Uses

• Used during traditional festivals and religious ceremonies.
• Provides important economic benefits to local farmers.
• Limited geographical adaptability contributes to restricted availability and good demand.
• Available in the Sargur banana market, Mysore district.
• Heavy use of chemical fertilizers is reported to affect its:
  • Taste
  • Shape
  • Aroma

GI Protection

• Karnataka Government Horticulture Department obtained GI protection under the Geographical Indications Act, 1999.
• GI registration was granted in 2005.
• GI protection helps safeguard the authenticity and identity of Nanjangud Banana.
• Source states that trademark rights were granted to Mysore farmers.

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