Narali Purnima: How the Konkan Coast Marks the Same Full Moon
While much of India ties rakhis, fishing families along the Maharashtra and Goa coast offer coconuts to the sea. Here is why.
The short answer
- When: Shravan Purnima, the same day as Raksha Bandhan.
- Where: the Konkan coast of Maharashtra and Goa.
- What: coconuts offered to the sea before boats return to the water.
Raksha Bandhan is one face of Shravan Purnima. On the Konkan coast, the same full moon belongs to the sea. Naral means coconut in Marathi, and this is the day it is offered to the waves.
Why the sea, and why now
During the heaviest monsoon weeks the sea is rough, and fishing slows or stops. Narali Purnima marks the turning point. Fishing communities, the Koli families among them, gather at the shore, offer a coconut to the sea and pray for calm water and a safe season. Decorated boats then head back out.
A coconut for the sea, a rakhi for the brother. One full moon, two promises of protection.
What happens at home
Coconut finds its way into the kitchen too. Narali bhaat, a sweet rice cooked with coconut and jaggery, is the dish most families associate with the day. And yes, rakhis are tied as well: in many coastal homes the two festivals simply sit side by side.
The same moon elsewhere
Shravan Purnima has other names across India. In parts of the south it is Avani Avittam, when men change the sacred thread. In Bengal and Odisha it closes Jhulan Purnima, when Radha and Krishna are swung on decorated swings. In Odisha's villages it is also Gamha Purnima, a day for decorating and honouring cattle.
Want to read about the Raksha Bandhan side of the day? Start with our 2027 date and muhurat guide.
Frequently asked questions
It falls on Shravan Purnima, the same full moon as Raksha Bandhan. In 2027 that is 17 August.
The coconut is an offering to the sea god, asking for calm waters and safety as fishing resumes after the monsoon months.
Picked for this guide
From our family shops in Jaipur. Prices were checked when we picked them; the shop page always shows today's price.
Maheshwari silk
18% off
theblockart.com
Hand Block Printed Maheshwari Silk Saree with Golden Border
₹2,450
Lumba rakhi
31% off
rakhiz.com
Designer Pearls Lumba Bhabhi Rakhi Set
₹220
Auspicious rakhi
36% off
rakhiz.com
Auspicious Krishna and Peacock Designer Rakhi
₹180
Bhaiya-bhabhi pair
rakhiz.com
Royal Peacock Bhaiya-Bhabhi Rakhi Set
₹370
Shop now
(opens in a new tab)
Thank you. Your answer helps us make this guide better.