This project, titled "Visual Dictionary: Folk Culture of Maharashtra", looks at the East Indian community of North Konkan in general and the Samvedi Christians of Vasai Taluka, Thane District in particular. What makes this community remarkable is that it did not evolve thus, naturally, but out of mass religious conversions. Several kingdoms ruled over the Vasai region, each one adding their own flavour to what already existed . Creating a cultural mosaic; a sort of mash-up of languages, music, food, rituals, and costume. Thus, a hybrid folklore has evolved. Today, the youth of Vasai are moving away from traditional jobs and lifestyles. Their urban white-collared jobs have not only brought them prosperity but also the notion that "traditional" is passe while "western" speaks of fine taste. Thus, the rich culture of Vasai stands at a crossroads. Having said that, self-reflexivity compels me to look at myself as I judge Vasaikars for letting their culture evaporate. Don’t most traditional cultures melt into cosmopolitia and die a natural death? So, on what basis should I insist that they preserve their traditions when I myself think in English rather than my mother tongue? This report is an account of journeys made to Vasai villages. It attempts to understand "folklore" and its context by looking at East Indian literature, music, and customs. The Visual Dictionary was done much later, almost as an afterthought. more out of curiosity about the place than as a pre-requisite for this special project.