As winter has begun to touch Nagpur’s mornings, the chilly season brings with it an array of fruit-laden tempos rolling out custard apple (Sitaphal), Orange (Santra), and Guava (Jaam). These fruits now dot every lane of the city. Stalls are stacked with pale green custard apple and bright citrus clusters as the city welcomes the most loved food season. A fruit vendor at Khamla, who has been in the trade for more than two decades, shared from where these fruits are sourced. “Hybrid custard apple is sourced from Yavatmal, while the local custard apple variety comes from Amravati and Hingna. The city’s signature oranges come from Katol and Kondhali, while Guavas arrive from Seoni in Madhya Pradesh. 

 

Seasonal fruits’ price vary 

 

According to him, hybrid Sitaphal is available in the market at Rs 100-120 per kg (Rs 250 per eight fruits), while the local variety ranges between Rs 67 and 125 per kg depending on fruit size (Rs 100 to Rs 150 per eight fruits). The city’s signature Oranges have opened at Rs 25-30 per kg (Rs 80 to Rs 120 per dozen), and Guavas are arriving steadily at Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg. “The prices may shift slightly as supply stabilises, but the earlier lots are generally the most eagerly awaited,” he added. The hybrid Sitaphal sits at the upper end of the winter price spectrum. The vendor explained that this trend remains consistent every year.

 

 

Women gathered around the stacks described the fruit with affection. “Every winter, sitaphal is the first thing I look for. I make sitaphal milkshake for the children, it’s a winter treat they wait for,” said Asha Patil. Others noted the nutritional value. “It gives quick energy and is gentle on the stomach. Rich fruits feel good when the weather gets cold,” added Meenal Dange, a school teacher. In contrast, the local variety, with its wide price band, attracts buyers who want the classic flavour profile.

 

 

No fruit signals Nagpur’s winter more strongly than its Oranges. According to the vendor, the early-season lots are slightly firmer and more tart, which are qualities many regular buyers appreciate. “These oranges remind me of childhood,” said Samina Sheikh, a homemaker, picking through a mound of fresh arrivals. “They’re full of Vitamin C. With winter starting, it helps keep the body warm and the immunity up.” Others referenced how easily oranges fit into daily routines. “I pack them in my kids’ lunchboxes. They’re convenient, healthy and they don’t get messy,” said Neena Gavit.

 

 

Crisp Guavas are a steady, daily-choice fruit. “I buy Guavas all through winter, they’re rich in fibre, good for digestion, and keep you full for long,” said Kirti Wankhede, a homemaker. Some shoppers emphasised their culinary use as well. “In our home, we make guava chutney every week. These Seoni guavas have the perfect crunch,” said Meghna Khobragade. For now, Nagpur’s chilly mornings start to the winter harvest.