Kylie W
India is a country of immense diversity, with many different religions, languages, and cultures. The most widespread religion in India is Hinduism, which is practiced by 79.8% of the population. Muslims account for 14.2%, while Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains make up the remaining 6%.
Hinduism is the oldest religion in India, with roots that can be traced back to the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE). It is a polytheistic religion, with millions of gods and goddesses. Hindus believe in karma, the law of cause and effect, and in reincarnation, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Hinduism is also known for its emphasis on ahimsa, or non-violence, and its celebration of festivals such as Diwali and Holi.
Muslims make up the second-largest religious group in India, accounting for 14.2% of the population. Islam was introduced to India in the 7th century CE by Arab traders, and the religion has since spread throughout the country. Muslims in India are divided into two main branches: the Sunni and the Shia. The two branches have different interpretations of Islamic law and practice, but they both share a common belief in the oneness of God and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Christians are the third-largest religious group in India, accounting for 2.3% of the population. Christianity was introduced to India by St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, in the 1st century CE. The majority of Christians in India are Roman Catholics, followed by Protestants and other denominations.
Sikhs make up 1.7% of India’s population. Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century CE and is based on the teachings of the ten Sikh gurus. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, with a strong emphasis on social justice and equality.
Buddhism is the fourth-largest religion in India, accounting for 0.7% of the population. Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama in the 5th century BCE and is based on his teachings of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Buddhism is a non-theistic religion, with a focus on meditation and mindfulness.
Jains make up 0.4% of India’s population. Jainism was founded by Mahavira in the 6th century BCE and is based on his teachings of ahimsa, or non-violence, and anekantavada, or the doctrine of multiple perspectives. Jains are divided into two main sects: the Digambara and the Svetambara.
Since 1951, the share of Muslims in India has grown modestly, by about 4 percentage points, while the share of Hindus has declined by about 4 points. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years, as India’s population continues to grow and religious diversity increases.
In conclusion, Hinduism is the most widespread religion in India, with 79.8% of the population practicing it. Muslims account for 14.2%, while Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains make up the remaining 6%. The share of Muslims in India has grown modestly since 1951, while the share of Hindus has declined. As India’s population continues to grow and religious diversity increases, this trend is likely to continue in the coming years.
