The most important part of the house is the shrine of the kuladevata (male clan deity) or the kuladevi (female clan deity). Kuldevatas protect one’s kula (clan), gotra (lineage), family, and children from misfortune. The shrine also features an image of Ganapati, a universally worshipped Hindu deity across Maharashtra.
After a brief stint at home, Rakesh and Rahul Bhalia return to the coast to prepare for the next fishing expedition. They meticulously clean the boat, removing debris to ensure a clean working space. They inspect and repair fishing nets, lines, and other equipment to ensure they are undamaged. In the photo, Rakesh is seen crafting a new oar to replace the worn-out one.
Koli fishermen are the family’s breadwinners, but they also do housework, especially when the wife is away or unavailable. In addition to their domestic duties, Koli fisherwomen manage various outdoor activities, such as taking processed fish to local markets or selling them as mobile vendors in residential areas, contributing significantly to the family income.
While his father prepares food for the family, Rahul Bhalia prepares for the next day’s venture. Phones are their only means of contact with the coast in case of sea danger, so Rahul ensures they are fully charged along with all other battery-operated equipment.
Wholesalers purchase fish in large quantities at the auction and often maintain established relationships with fishermen and auctioneers. After the auction, they transport the fish to distribution centres, which can be local markets or larger hubs.
On days when fishing is not possible, Rahul Bhalia takes advantage of the tidal movements to catch fish in shallow creeks and mangroves. Fishermen set traps or barriers in tidal zones and collect the catch as the tide recedes. Mud crabs, commonly found in mangroves, are particularly targeted using this method.
The main fishing season in Mumbai begins after the monsoon rains, usually in August, when the seas are calmer and safer for fishing. The peak fishing season runs from September to April, during which the weather is favourable, and fish populations are abundant due to the nutrients that the monsoon washes into the sea.
Flags and brightly coloured floats mark the fishing area. The size and type of net may vary depending on the boat size and the crew’s hauling capacity. Most fishermen operate small boats, which can accommodate a maximum of two or three people. These boats typically place four to five nets in one area.
The boat’s bright colours make it easy to spot at sea. Each boat has a unique name, often including the owner’s name and registration number. Small boats usually have a powerful motor, which provides power to steer the boat at sea.
Rahul Bhalia, a 26-year-old resident of Khar Danda Koliwada, a fishing village, assists his father, Rakesh Bhalia, in running fishing operations. Rahul and his father operate a small boat instead of working on larger trawlers. While trawlers offer safety and extended time at sea, they come with high operational costs. The father-son duo's preference for a small boat allows them to operate at lower costs.