The world is a wonderfully diverse place, home to countless cultures and religions. Among these, Hinduism stands out as one of the oldest and most influential. With a rich history, diverse traditions, and deep philosophical roots, Hinduism has shaped the cultures of many countries worldwide.
While India is the heartland of Hinduism, there are millions of Hindus spread across the globe. Let’s explore the countries with the largest Hindu populations.
1. India
India is the birthplace of Hinduism and boasts the largest Hindu population in the world. Despite being a multicultural and multi-religious country, Hindus make up about 79.8% of the population, with approximately 1,145,495,335 followers.
2. Nepal
Nestled in the Himalayas, Nepal has a significant Hindu population. Interestingly, it is the only officially Hindu country in the world. About 24,292,363 Hindus live in Nepal, making up 81.3% of its citizens.
3. Bangladesh
Bangladesh, predominantly a Muslim country, also has a notable Hindu community. Approximately 15,555,771 Hindus live in Bangladesh, constituting 8.5% of the population.
4. Indonesia
Indonesia, mainly a Muslim nation, has a substantial Hindu population, especially on the island of Bali. Around 4,838,153 Hindus reside in Indonesia.
5. Pakistan
Pakistan has a significant Hindu minority. Despite facing challenges, about 4,474,034 Hindus live in Pakistan.
6. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, a neighbour of India, has a Hindu population of about 2,958,126.
7. Malaysia
Malaysia, with a Muslim majority, has around 2,035,006 Hindus, making it the seventh-largest Hindu population globally.
8. United States of America
Many Indian Hindus move to the USA for education and job opportunities, contributing to a Hindu population of about 2,033,535.
9. Myanmar
Myanmar has a Hindu population of approximately 948,898, securing its spot among countries with significant Hindu communities.
10. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has a notable Hindu population of about 899,945, reflecting its diverse cultural landscape.
Conclusion
Hinduism’s influence extends far beyond India, enriching cultures and communities worldwide. From Nepal to the United States, the presence of Hindus highlights the global spread of this ancient religion. Each of these countries showcases the vibrant traditions and rich cultural heritage that Hinduism brings to the world.