Before we continue any further, it would be good to become familiar with some Goan words, terms and understand goenkarponn (being Goan). Plus, some of these words and phrases will help you sound like a local, men! Goa, over the centuries, has been home to Maratha kings, Portuguese colonisers and Muslim sultans. Now, of course, it is home to independent citizens of India. The roots of its name come from an interesting mythological tale. The Hindu god Parashurama (the sixth avatar of Vishnu) shot his arrow into the sea and commanded the sea to recede. The corner (kona) and piece (kana) that receded came to be called Konkan.