The earliest inhabitants of the islands were the Kolis, an aboriginal tribe of husbandmen and fisherfolk who have Koliwadas* / Villages in the portions of the islands which are now known as Upper Colaba, lower Colaba, Dongri, Mazagaon, Naigaon, Sion, Mahim & Worli. In fact, even the very name ‘Mumbai’ is said to have been used for this place by the Kolis from as far back as the 16th century and was derived from their goddess, and patron deity of the city, Mumbadevi.

Raja Bhimadev founded Mahikavati (Mahim) in 1294 & thus began the journey of Bombay or Mumbai. Bhima’s followers, among whom the Prabhus, Palshikar Brahmans, Panchkalshis, Bhandaris, Bhois and Thakurs were the most noteworthy, spread over the islands and settled the Villages in Mahim, Siwri, Naigaon, Matunga, Vadala & Parel.  Some other villages or old establishments are Byculla, Tadvadi, Nagpada & Chinchpugli, Kumbarwada, Khara Talao, Chakla, Umarkhadi, Mandvi, Dhobi Talao, Dharavi & Chembur.

Mazgoan derived from Matsya Gram which means fishing village. Located north of the island of Mazagaon, Parel is a historic settlement with written records indicating habitation as early as the 11th century C.E. Mahim, to the north-east of Worli, once served as the capital of the area ruled by the 13th-century ruler Raja Bhimdev.

*Koliwada refers to a village of Kolis (fishermen) in India. Several places named Koliwada are located across the city.