It’s been a busy two months for Regina Pereira, who has been making the most of the mangoes growing in her backyard. Being a part of the East Indian community, the Vasai-based resident who lives in Giriz, one of the many East Indian villages in the suburb has had mixed luck this year, as only one of her two mango trees have blossomed. It is the first time in many years since the tree was planted 45 years ago by her husband’s parents that it hasn’t borne fruit, Pereira reveals. She says, “I think it is God’s way of saying that you should stay indoors and also not call the pickers who come to remove the mangoes, for their safety due to this Covid-19 pandemic.” Every time other people pass by her house, they notice the missing mangoes. The tree is very noticeable because it is at the front of the house, and gives fruit to thousands of mangoes, which are a delight to the eyes of young and old.

However, the lack of fruit from one tree hasn’t stopped her. Pereira is in the process of making her third batch of pickles for the season. These mangoes were picked in early March from the other tree, which is being generous as usual.