The ebb and flow of tides, along with the changing seasons when certain types of fish are available, dictate the catch. Most fishermen use vertical nets, called gill nets, that trap fish by their gills. After laying the nets, the boats wait for four to five hours before hauling them back on board.
The ambada is a low bun typically positioned at the nape of the neck. This is a simple and elegant hairstyle for Koli women. During festivals and celebrations, they often adorn the bun with flowers, typically jasmine, and gold ornaments to add a decorative touch.
For additional coverage and to ensure it stays in place while working, women typically drape the Lugra saree by taking the pallu (the loose end of the saree) over the shoulder and tucking it at the waist in the back or bringing it around to the front.
The khopa (classic bun) is one of the most traditional hairstyles for Koli women. It involves gathering the hair at the back of the head and twisting it into a neat bun. As is customary in the region, they adorn their hair buns with scented and colourful flowers.
The front part of the surka is embroidered with maritime motifs such as fish, crabs, and boats. The surka is a long piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and legs, tied in a way that gives a triangular shape at the front. Traditionally, Koli fishermen wore a short dhoti known as langoti for sea fishing, reserving the surka for festivals and special occasions.
The Lugra saree is draped in a manner suited for the active lifestyle of Koli women. It is wrapped around the waist with pleats tucked in the front, allowing ease of movement during outdoor work. The khadki, a white scarf, or dupatta, completes the attire and is worn over the upper body.
The Lugra saree is draped in a manner suited for the active lifestyle of Koli women. It is wrapped around the waist with pleats tucked in the front, allowing ease of movement during outdoor work. The khadki, a white scarf, or dupatta, completes the attire and is worn over the upper body.
Married women wear thauja, a thick mangalsutra (necklace) with multiple strands of black beads, typically consisting of five or nine strands. The woman in the picture is wearing a thauja with a pendant featuring the double fish motif, symbolic of the fishing livelihood of Kolis.
For additional coverage and to ensure it stays in place while working, women typically drape the Lugra saree by taking the pallu (the loose end of the saree) over the shoulder and tucking it at the waist in the back or bringing it around to the front.