India’s Religious Demographics Are Rapidly Changing — What Comes Next?
India, long seen as the world’s largest Hindu-majority nation, is on the brink of a profound demographic shift. According to projections from Pew Research Center, the country’s religious landscape will look significantly different by 2050.
Here’s what the data reveals:
• Hindus are projected to reach 1.3 billion (130 crore), marking a +33% increase from 2010.
• Muslims, however, are growing faster — expected to reach 311 million (31.1 crore), a staggering +76% increase.
• Christians will rise to 37 million (3.7 crore), up +18%.
• Other groups (Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, etc.) will collectively grow by just +5%, totaling 46 million (4.6 crore).
While India has a rich tradition of multi-faith coexistence, the rapid growth of certain groups — especially amid regional tensions with neighboring Pakistan — raises pressing questions about national identity, secularism, and political balance.
What does this mean for India’s future?
Will this shift spark a new era of pluralism and inclusivity, or further polarize the political landscape?
What’s your take on this demographic transition?
Join the conversation — how should the world’s largest democracy navigate its evolving identity?
