Makaras, with a floral scroll emerging from its mouth, form the central arch. On the left, decorative stuccowork showcases the ten-armed Durga (Mahishasurmardini), while a musician plays a sitar on the right.
A Koli fisherwoman installed the old shrine to Mumba Devi on the Esplanade, just outside the British Fort, according to the popular narrative. In 1737, land was provided by the British East India Company for the relocation of the temple to Bhuleshwar.
Individual families bring coconuts to Versova Beach by placing them in a kalash (pot) and carrying the pot on their heads. Though Narali Purnima is primarily a festival observed by sea-faring fishing communities, other communities also offer coconuts to the sea on this auspicious occasion.
The coconut, symbolizing life and fertility, is tossed into the sea as an offering to the Sea God Varuna, whom the Kolis call Darya Raja (king of rivers).
During the monsoon season, a government-imposed fishing ban lasts for two months. Fishing restarts on Narali Purnima, with the offering of coconuts to mark the auspicious beginning of the new fishing season.