"Religion in India is characterised by a diversity of religious beliefs and practices."
The study of major religions practiced in South Asia such as Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism and Christianity along with their existing and historical practices.
Hinduism: Hinduism is the predominant religion in South Asia, and understanding its beliefs, practices, and history is fundamental to comprehending other religions in the region.
Buddhism: Buddhism had its origins in South Asia and has had a significant impact on the region's religions, culture, and history. Understanding the basics of Buddhism is essential in comprehending the religious landscape of South Asia.
Jainism: Jainism, along with Hinduism and Buddhism, is one of the major religions of South Asia. It has a unique philosophy that places emphasis on non-violence and self-realization.
Sikhism: Sikhism is a monotheistic faith that originated in the Punjab region of South Asia in the 15th century. It is a religion that combines elements of Hinduism and Islam.
Islam: Islam has had a significant impact on South Asia, especially in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Understanding the basic beliefs, practices, and history of Islam is vital in comprehending the religious dynamics in South Asia.
Christianity: Christianity is a minority religion in South Asia, but it has a long history in the region, dating back to the arrival of European colonial powers in the sixteenth century.
Zoroastrianism: While a minority religion in South Asia, Zoroastrianism has an important cultural and historical significance in regions such as Mumbai and Pakistan's Sindh province.
Animism: Animism is a belief system that posits that all things, be they animate or inanimate, possess a spirit or consciousness. It is a prevalent belief system in many rural areas of South Asia.
Folk religions: Folk religions are indigenous belief systems of South Asia that have not been classified as a mainstream religion. These belief systems are often specific to particular regions or ethnic groups.
Syncretism: Syncretism refers to the amalgamation of religious ideas and beliefs from two or more different religions. It is a prevalent practice in South Asia, where various religions have coexisted for centuries.
Caste system: The caste system is a long-standing social hierarchy in South Asia based on occupation, birth, and social status. It has had profound impacts on the religious practices and beliefs of many communities in South Asia.
Festivals and Rituals: South Asia is home to numerous festivals and rituals associated with various religions. Such celebrations serve as an integral part of the culture in the region.
Religious Art and Architecture: The art and architecture of South Asia are deeply intertwined with religious traditions that span centuries. Understanding these traditions is essential in comprehending the religious practices and beliefs of the communities.
Religious Texts: Numerous religious texts are associated with various religions in South Asia, including the Vedas, the Bhagavad Gita, the Quran, and the Bible. Understanding these texts is vital in comprehending the religious traditions of South Asia.
Religious Philosophy: The philosophies of various religions have had a significant impact on South Asian religious beliefs and practices. Understanding these philosophical concepts can provide deeper insights into the religious dynamics of the region.
Religious Education: Religious education plays an essential role in the South Asian religious landscape. Understanding the systems of religious education and how they interact with the broader society is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of religion in the region.
Religious Laws and Governance: Many countries in South Asia have laws that dictate the practice of religion, and religious institutions wield significant political power in some countries. Understanding the intersection of religion and governance is necessary in the study of South Asian religion.
Interfaith Relations: Interfaith relations have been a crucial element in the religious history of South Asia, with positive and negative interactions between religions. Understanding how different religions have coexisted and interacted in South Asia is vital in comprehending its religious landscape.
Women and Religion: The role of women in various religions has been subject to numerous interpretations and modifications throughout history. Understanding these interpretations and their social impacts on women is vital in comprehending the religious dynamics of South Asia.
Modernization and Secularization: South Asia has witnessed dramatic changes in its religious landscape due to modernization and secularization. Understanding how modernization and secularization have impacted religious beliefs and practices in the region is crucial in comprehending its religious dynamics.
Hinduism: One of the oldest and widespread religions in the world, based around the Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, and other texts, it has a large following in India, Nepal, and other parts of South Asia.
Buddhism: Originating in India and later spreading to other parts of the world, it focuses on attaining enlightenment and nirvana through meditation.
Jainism: An ancient religion that emphasizes non-violence towards all living beings, it has followers in India, Nepal and other parts of South Asia.
Sikhism: Founded in the 15th century, it is a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of India, focusing on the proper worship of one God and living a moral life.
Islam: Introduced to South Asia in the 8th century, Islam is one of the largest religions in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, and is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Christianity: Brought to South Asia by European colonizers, Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Zoroastrianism: One of the oldest religions in the world and with its origins in Iran, this religion has a small following in South Asian countries like India and Pakistan.
Animism: Believing in spirits or supernatural forces, it is practiced by some tribal groups in South Asia.
Bon: A traditional Tibetan religion that has been practiced in the Himalayas for thousands of years.
Baha'i: Emphasizing global unity and the commonality of all religions, this religion is relatively new to the world and has a small following in South Asian countries.
"Indian subcontinent is the birthplace of four of the world's major religions, namely, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism."
"The Preamble to the Constitution of India states that India is a secular state."
"The Constitution of India has declared the right to freedom of religion to be a fundamental right."
"According to the 2011 census, 79.8% of the population of India practices Hinduism."
"According to the 2011 census, 14.2% adheres to Islam."
"According to the 2011 census, 2.3% adheres to Christianity."
"According to the 2011 census, 1.7% adheres to Sikhism."
"According to the 2011 census, 0.7% adheres to Buddhism."
"According to the 2011 census, 0.4% adheres to Jainism."
"Zoroastrianism, Sanamahism, and Judaism also have an ancient history in India."
"India has the largest population of people adhering to both Zoroastrianism (i.e. Parsis and Iranis) and the Bahá'í Faith in the world."
"these religions are otherwise largely exclusive to their native Persia."
"Throughout India's history, religion has been an important part of the country's culture."
"which are collectively known as native Indian Religions or Dharmic Religions."
"Hinduism, 79.8% of the population of India practices Hinduism."
"Islam, 14.2% adheres to Islam."
"Christianity, 2.3% adheres to Christianity."
"1.7% adheres to Sikhism."
"0.4% adheres to Jainism."