🙏 Religion in India 2026

Understanding India's Religious Demographics

The religious composition of India reflects its long history as a crossroads of civilizations and a birthplace of major world religions. Buddhism and Jainism originated in India around the 6th century BCE, while Sikhism emerged in the 15th century CE in Punjab. Islam arrived through traders and later through various dynasties, while Christianity has been present since the early centuries CE.

Regional Distribution

Religious demographics vary significantly across India's states and union territories. The northern and central states have predominantly Hindu populations, while states like Jammu & Kashmir, and union territories like Lakshadweep have Muslim majorities. The northeastern states of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya have Christian majorities, reflecting the impact of missionary activities during the colonial period.

Historical Context

India's religious diversity has evolved over thousands of years. The Vedic traditions that form the basis of Hinduism date back to around 1500 BCE. The country has been a refuge for persecuted religious communities, including Zoroastrians (Parsis) who fled Persia and Jews who settled in Kerala. This tradition of religious tolerance is enshrined in India's constitution, which declares India a secular state.

Census Methodology

The Census of India collects religion data through self-declaration by respondents. The seven categories recorded are Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, and Others (which includes tribal religions, atheists, and other faiths). The "Religion Not Stated" category accounts for those who did not declare their religion.