The tribes living in the hilly areas of eastern border of Gujarat are spread in comparatively a larger part of the state. Koli is among those communities who live a semi-tribal life.
        The Kolis living in parts of Gujarat-Saurashtra are divided into five sub-castes, such as (1) Talpada, (2) Chumvalia, and (3) Ghedia, (4) Valankia and (5) khant. The number of other minor sub castes is very big.
        Some of the Kolis from South Gujarat call themselves ‘Patels’ and others introduce themselves as ‘Thakors’. According to a reference, the mariners living in the coastal area are basically from the Koli community. The Bhils of the Aravalli hills live with the kolis. The people of this community residing in the ravines of rivers and desert areas have more or less merged with other local communities.
        Agriculture is one of the main occupations of the Kolis. Some of them work as labourers on daily wages. Their surnames are similar to those of the Rajputs. Many kolis are involved in criminal activities too. Kolis were known for theft, robbery and stealing of crops. They are idle and extravagant by nature. They are frequently lured by easy money instead of hard work or labour.
        That is why most kolis resorted to criminal acts. They created a sense of terror in north Gujarat once upon a time. The Kolis are robusts built medium in looks and black in complexion. The kolis of Saurashtra wear ratched breeches and in Gujarat they were short dhoti, similar shirt, a coaty and a simple turban. The buttons are made of silver chain with tiny bells. They also wear a black thread and an ominous pandel in neck.
        The Koli women wear the petticoat embroidered with small round mirrors and thick sarees. The Kolis living in urban areas have shifted to modern attire. The women love simple silver ornaments. The kolis were famous for their skills in detecting the footprints of a thief or an animal at one time. They were expert in hunting of pigs and rabbits. They were equally proficient in horse riding and swimming.
        Koli women are normally thin in build. They are charming by face. Colorful dresses, small ring in the nose and dancing a Tippani are their main hobbies. They sing with a very sweet and delicate voice. Tippani dance of koli women is an experience to witness.