Deciphering endurance capacity of mango tree (Mangifera indica L.) to desiccation stress using modern physiological tools

•Mango plant can maintain its canopy coolness during desiccation period by its ability to with draw water during water limiting conditions.•Mango plant can maintain its carboxylation capacity during hotter period of the day.•Crucial components of photosynthesis, PSII efficiency is maintained during desiccation period, thereby preventing the plants from desiccation damage and providing tolerance mechanisms.•Mango plant can maintain its structural attributes (mainly by maintaining turgidity due to water retention capacity) such as convex hull area, which also supports desiccation tolerance mechanisms.