Picture a serene coastal village amidst Mumbai’s urban sprawl. This is Manori. It offers a perfect escape from the city. Manori is known for its pristine beaches and picturesque sunsets.
Manori’s history goes back to colonial times. It was a popular trading port. Today, it attracts locals and tourists seeking tranquility. Its geography features lush greenery and swaying palm trees. The atmosphere is laid-back.
The village has a history stretching back almost five hundred years. It dates to the Portuguese occupation of Bombay. The people here are known as East Indians. These are communities of fisher-folk, farmers and landowners. Most are Roman Catholics.
Manori Koliwada has been inhabited for centuries. Evidence supports this since the thirteenth century CE. The Mahikavatichi Bakhar mentions Manori. It calls it one of five villages of Thikan Uttan.
The Koli community primarily resides in Manori. They consist of Hindu and Christian Kolis. Small populations of Bhandari and Kunbi communities also live here. Parshuram Koli says his is the oldest family in Manori.
Manori Koliwada is divided into localities. These are demarcated by lanes called gallis. Each galli has its own interesting story. Pandhar Galli got its name from the traditional fish drying ground. Deval Galli grew around Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church. Barak Galli developed near an old military barracks. Bandar Galli is near the local fishing port. The Bhandarwada is where the Bhandaris of Manori reside.
Karjai Devi is the gramdevta of Manori Koliwada. Her shrine lies outside the Koliwada. The Palkhi Sohla is organized in her honor in January. People parade the goddess’ image in a palkhi. They carry it from her temple to the Hanuman temple. Every household makes offerings to Karjai Devi that day.
Older generations believe in Kathivala Dev. He is considered the guardian of Manori Koliwada. He would patrol at night making sounds with his stick. Fishermen beseeched him for company and security.
The Kolis of Manori have always fished in the open sea. Their traditional knowledge influences their techniques. Fishermen consider tidal hours before fishing. These are divided into categories. Disha is the morning high tide. Madaar is the morning low tide. Eel is the night high tide. Vhat is the night low tide. Manori’s traditional fishing technique is called kav. It involves poles and a large net.
Manori offers tranquil beaches. It has vibrant nightlife. It has scenic beauty. The best time to visit Manori is October to February. The weather is pleasant then. A weekend getaway is ideal here in Manori.