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.
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.