Religions of India: Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism & Jainism
India is the birthplace of four major world religions. A guide to their origins, core beliefs, sacred texts, and living traditions.
No country has contributed more to the world's religious landscape than India. Four of the world's major religions — Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism — were born here. Two others (Islam and Christianity) arrived early and put down deep roots. India is simultaneously the world's largest Hindu nation, has 200 million Muslims (the world's third-largest Muslim population), and hosts ancient Jewish, Zoroastrian, and Bahai communities.
Hinduism
The world's oldest living religion (~4,000 years) and India's majority faith (80% of the population). Not a single religion but a family of traditions sharing concepts: dharma (righteous duty), karma (cause and effect), samsara (cycle of rebirth), and moksha (liberation). Core texts: Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Mahabharata. The 330 million deities are understood as manifestations of one ultimate reality (Brahman).
Buddhism
Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha, c. 563–483 BCE) who attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Bihar. The Four Noble Truths diagnose suffering and prescribe the Eightfold Path as the cure. Buddhism spread across Asia under Emperor Ashoka and is now practiced by ~500 million people worldwide — but only ~0.7% of Indians. It declined in its birthplace partly through reabsorption into Hinduism.
Jainism
One of the world's most ancient religions, built on ahimsa (non-violence), truth, and non-attachment. Jain monks sweep the ground as they walk to avoid harming insects. Though only ~0.4% of India, the Jain community has extraordinary influence in Indian business and philanthropy.
Sikhism
Founded by Guru Nanak (1469–1539) in Punjab, Sikhism teaches equality before God, service (seva), and rejection of caste. The Golden Temple in Amritsar feeds 100,000 people free daily. The 10 Gurus' teachings are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib — the eternal living Guru. Approximately 25 million Sikhs worldwide, with major diaspora communities in Canada and the UK.