The purna kalasha (pot of fertility) consists of a pot traditionally made of metal such as copper, brass, silver, or clay. It is filled with water, and five or more fresh mango leaves are placed around the neck. A whole coconut is placed on top, nestled among the mango leaves. The purna kalasha symbolizes fertility and is used in Hindu ceremonies to bless new beginnings.
The centrepiece of the procession is a carriage carrying the purna kalasha (pot of fertility). The carriages come in various designs, reflecting the creativity of the community. They can be carts (pictured), palkis (open litters), raths (chariots), or other forms of transport.
The organizing committees each have their own music band. These bands, playing saxophones, trumpets, drums, cymbals, and various other musical instruments, accompany the procession as it makes its way through Versova Koliwada.
Flowers and floral garlands are used to decorate the carriages carrying coconuts and are featured in various puja rituals. Flowers, along with coconuts, are also offered to the sea.
As the rising flames engulf the effigy, prayers are made to Haul Mata, seeking forgiveness for past misgivings and invoking blessings for new beginnings. It is believed that the smoke rising from the burning effigy removes negative forces from the neighbourhood.
The tree trunk is seen as a manifestation of Holika, who possessed a boon making her immune to fire. Holika’s brother, Hiranyakashipu, had a son named Prahlad, who had unwavering bhakti (devotion) towards Lord Vishnu. In an attempt to kill Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu instructed Holika to sit on a burning pyre with Prahlad on her lap. However, due to Prahlad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu, he was saved from the flames while Holika was burned to ashes. This event symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is commemorated as Holika dahan.
Married women in the family adorn Holika with all the visual markers of a married woman. This includes items of solah shringar, which comprise 16 pieces of jewellery and accessories that complete the traditional look of a Hindu bride, placed on the effigy.