This white sandy beach is very attractive. The Chowpatty beach, like all the beaches of Mumbai, gets busiest during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, when small and very large sized idols of Lord Ganesh are immersed in the sea. It has also witnessed some significant events in India's contemporary history. A number of important 'Quit India' rallies were conducted here during the Independence movement. Beach is a favourite evening gathering place for Mumbaites. The erected statue of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak at this beach mark the spot where this great nationalist leader was cremated in 1920. The authorities dispersed the Koli Fishing community and the roundabouts, Ferris wheels, shooting, galleries and card games that gave the beach much of its charm at night. The beach is a favourite place for couples and families, balloon sellers, nut vendors and beach entertainers.