South Indian Languages with the Most Endangered Dialects

Telugu has the most endangered dialects among South Indian languages, with 10 dialects listed as critically endangered by UNESCO.

The Chenchu dialect of Telugu is considered the most endangered, with only a few hundred speakers remaining.

Nine dialects of Kannada are considered endangered, including the Kodava, Tulu, and Beary dialects.

The Irula dialect of Tamil is considered the most endangered, with only a few hundred speakers remaining.

Five dialects of Malayalam are considered endangered, including the Paniya, Kattunayakan, and Malapandaram dialects.

Language shift, or the adoption of a dominant language over a minority language, is the main factor contributing to the endangerment of South Indian dialects.

Documentation projects, language revitalization programs, and educational initiatives are all being undertaken to preserve endangered South Indian dialects.

Malayalam has the least number of endangered dialects among South Indian languages, with only 3 dialects listed as endangered by UNESCO.

Approximately 40 dialects in South Indian languages are considered endangered.

Approximately 500 speakers of the Chenchu dialect of Telugu remain.