Pomegranates have originated from Iran. Its is cultivated in Spain, Egypt, Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, Japan, Russia, America, and India. Maharashtra State is the leading producer of pomegranates in India. In India more than 0.1 million hectares of area is under pomegranate cultivation presently.

In Maharashtra pomegranate is cultivated in the districts of Solapur, Nasik, Ahemadnagar, Pune, Sangli, and Satara. Main Vaireties are Ganesh, Phule Arakta, Mridula, & Bhagwa. The fruits are available for exports mainly from July to September. An impressive apple-shaped fruit with hard golden-red skin and a large calyx resembling a royal crown – the Pomegranate is a fruit with mystical past and an amazing future! It has already gained the reputation of a super-fruit with amazing anti-oxidant properties. This apple with dot - which is the meaning of the word pomegranate - is referenced in many civilizations and religions. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite the Goddess of Love, offered her lovers pomegranates as a gift. The medical authorities of ancient India have described it as a light food and a tonic for the heart.

The sweet varieties of the fruit are considered a good laxative, while those which are intermediate are regarded as valuable in stomach ailments. The fruit is rich in vitamin C, and a good source of plant fibers. Pomegranate juice contains more antioxidants than the juice of blueberries, cranberries, orange juice and even red wine! The thick skin, i.e. the rind of the pomegranate fruit is greatly responsible for its good keeping quality. If stored correctly the fruit can be kept for as long as six months. This variety is available throughout the year.