Narali Purnima is being celebrated by fishermen community in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar. People of Koli community who are mainly fishermen-the original inhabitants of Mumbai, Thane and Palghar celebrated the Narali Purnima festival today with great enthusiasm.
As a tradition, they offer coconuts to the sea and pray to Lord Varuna for calm waters and protection from natural calamities. On the occasion of Narali Purnima, Koliwadas (fishermen colonies) in Mumbai were decorated with traditional rangolis. Groups of Koli men and women performed dances in traditional costumes from various lanes of Koliwada.
Narali Purnima is a sacred festival which is celebrated by coastal communities, especially in Maharashtra, with deep devotion and traditional rituals. In 2025, Narali Purnima will be observed on August 9.
The word Narali comes from the Marathi word naral, meaning coconut, and “Poornima” refers to the full moon day. This festival marks the end of the monsoon season and is particularly significant for the fishing communities living along the Konkan coast, including Mumbai and surrounding regions.
Narali Purnima is dedicated to Lord Varun, the Hindu God of the Sea, who is worshipped to ensure safety and prosperity for fishermen as they prepare to resume their work after the rough monsoon period. Offerings of coconuts are made to the sea as a symbol of gratitude and a prayer for calm waters.
On this day, devotees often visit temples, wear traditional clothes, and prepare special coconut-based sweets like Narali Bhaat. More than a religious ritual, Narali Purnima is a celebration of nature’s rhythm, the spirit of the sea, and the community’s dependence on water for livelihood. It’s a beautiful fusion of faith, culture, and coastal tradition.
Narali Poornima signifies the conclusion of the monsoon month and the beginning of the fishing season. Narali Purnima and Raksha Bandhan occur on the same date. Both festivals are observed on the full moon day, known as Purnima. The full moon day in Shravan is deemed fortunate for both, leading to a concurrent celebration.
Narali Purnima is also known as the coconut festival. The festival is celebrated especially in the coastal regions of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka.
The festival highlights the strong connection between nature and human existence, particularly in coastal regions where the ocean is essential. It is also an opportunity for communal connections, festivities, and honouring nature through tree planting and celebrating existence.