It would have ended today. Had there been no hiccup in a four centuries-old tradition and the Bandra Fair was held in COVID-free climes, this was the annual week of worship and revelry. Lasting eight days, from the Sunday after the September 8 birthday of Mother Mary to the next, termed Octave Sunday, the fair envelopes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, contoured Neo-Gothic by Shapoorjee Chandabhoy in 1904.

That the shrine drew devotees on bullocks or in boats across Mahim creek since early years may be surmised from a 1669 document describing decorated bell-jingling recklas (carts), carrying passengers to the Mount by lantern light. Breaking their tiring trip from gaothans well beyond Bandra, the faithful tethered bovine steeds to rest in cool groves as they trekked uphill. Returning pilgrims were provided snacks that locals kept ready on verandahs prettied for the occasion. Basic diversions for visitors gradually sprouted larger food and games stalls.