Regions with significant populations | |
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Primary populations in: |
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Languages | |
Various dialects of Konkani and Marathi | |
Religion | |
Hinduism | |
Related ethnic groups | |
Konkani people |
Primary populations in:
The Bhandari community is a caste that inhabits the western coast of India. They form the largest caste group in the state of Goa, reportedly being over 30% of that state's Hindu population, and play a major role in deciding the future of any political party there.
Bhandaris are included in the list of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Goa. This provides them with certain rights under India's scheme of affirmative action, such as reservation of positions in government employment and admission to professional colleges. They are also classified as OBCs in Maharashtra.