Religion in India: An Overview
Religion in India is a tapestry of diverse practices, beliefs, and communities, woven into the cultural fabric of the nation. As the birthplace of major world religions, India's religious landscape is both varied and vibrant.
Major Religions in India
Hinduism
Hinduism is the largest and most practiced religion in India, with approximately 79.8% of the population identifying as Hindus according to the 2011 census. It is a highly diverse belief system characterized by a variety of gods and practices. India is home to 94% of the global Hindu population.
Islam
Islam is the second-largest religion in India, constituting about 14.2% of the population. The country has a significant Muslim population, making it one of the largest Muslim communities in the world.
Christianity
Christianity accounts for 2.3% of India's population. It was introduced to India by Thomas the Apostle and has grown to encompass various denominations, including Catholicism and Protestantism.
Sikhism
Sikhism, which originated in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century, represents about 1.7% of the country's population. It was founded by Guru Nanak.
Buddhism
Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, is practiced by 0.7% of the Indian population. Though its roots are in India, it has a larger following in other parts of Asia.
Jainism
Jainism is practiced by about 0.4% of the population and is known for its principles of non-violence and asceticism. It is one of the oldest religions in India.
Other Religions
India is also home to smaller communities of Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Bahá'í Faith, and indigenous tribal religions.
Constitutional Framework and Secularism
The Constitution of India guarantees freedom of religion as a fundamental right through Articles 25-28. The Preamble declares India as a secular state, ensuring no official promotion of any religion. However, India's secularism is unique, as it allows for the coexistence of religion and state institutions.
Cultural and Social Influence
Religion influences various aspects of life in India, including festivals, rituals, art, and architecture. Major festivals like Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Vaisakhi are celebrated widely across the nation. Religious sites such as the Golden Temple, Jagannath Temple, and Meenakshi Temple are not only places of worship but also tourist attractions.