2,420,000 in India (2001 census). Population total all
countries: 2,423,540. North and central coastal strip of
Maharashtra; Karnataka; Dadra and Nagar Haveli; Kerala. Also in
Canada. 2 (Provincial). Statutory provincial language in Goa
State (1992, Constitution, 71st Amendment). Agari of Kolaba,
Bhandari, Chitapavani, Dhanagari, Ghati (Maoli), Karhadi,
Kiristav, Koli, Mahari (Dhed, Holia, Parvari), Parabhi (Damani,
Kayasthi), Sangamesvari (Bakoti, Bankoti), Thakuri (Thakari,
Thakri, Thakua, Thakura). Dialects closely related; Chitapavani
recognized as standard Konkani. Local fishermen use the Koli
dialect (Hukkeri). Related to Katkari [kfu] (dialects: Kathodi,
Katvadi), Varli [vav], Phudagi [phd], Samvedi [smv], Mangelas.