Canara

Canara, also known as Kanara, is a historical and cultural region on the Konkan coast of southwestern India. In contemporary terms it largely corresponds to the coastal areas of Karnataka, notably the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, with portions of Kasaragod district in Kerala. The region centers on Mangaluru (Mangalore), a major port city, and is defined by its coastal geography, hills, and estuaries.

Linguistically, Canara is diverse. The coastal belt is home to Tulu-speaking communities, along with Konkani and Kannada speakers. The population includes Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities, with social and cultural practices reflecting a long history of coastal trade, agriculture, and maritime activity.

Historically a navigation and trading hub, Canara has a rich maritime heritage connected to Arabian Sea commerce. It is known for a distinctive local culture, including temples, churches, mosques, traditional art forms, and a cuisine that blends coastal flavors. The region supports industries such as fisheries, plantation crops, and education, with numerous institutions contributing to its regional identity.

The name Canara also appears in the titles of various organizations and institutions associated with the area, most notably Canara Bank, a major Indian financial institution established by community entrepreneurs in the early 20th century in Mangaluru. The term and its variants continue to be used in historical and cultural references to the region.