1.3 Geographical spread and demographic of Hinduism

Hinduism, the world's third-largest religion, has a dominant presence in India and Nepal. Over 95% of Hindus live in India, but significant populations exist across Asia, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.

Hinduism's global reach extends beyond Asia. Historical factors, British colonialism, and modern immigration have led to growing Hindu communities in Western countries like the US, UK, and Canada. The popularity of yoga and meditation has also attracted Western converts.

Hinduism's Global Reach

Hinduism's Dominant Presence in India and Nepal

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• Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, with over 95% of the world's Hindus living there
• Nepal also has a Hindu majority

Significant Hindu Populations in Asia and Beyond

• Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world
• Significant populations of adherents in:
  • Bangladesh
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • Sri Lanka
  • Mauritius
  • Fiji
  • Guyana
  • Suriname
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Bhutan

Growing Hindu Communities in Western Countries

• Sizable Hindu communities in many Western countries due to immigration and conversion
• Countries with notable Hindu populations include:
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Netherlands
  • Germany
  • Italy

Factors in Hinduism's Spread

Historical Factors and Early Expansion

• Ancient trade routes contributed to the early geographical expansion of Hinduism to Southeast Asia and beyond
• Influence of Indian empires and the spread of Indian culture played a role in Hinduism's early spread
• Historical factors led to the establishment of Hindu communities in various parts of Southeast Asia

British Colonialism and Migration

• British colonialism and the migration of indentured laborers from India in the 19th century led to the establishment of Hindu communities in various parts of the British Empire
• Countries with Hindu populations influenced by British colonialism include:
  • Fiji
  • Mauritius
  • South Africa
  • Guyana
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Suriname

Modern Immigration Patterns

• In the 20th and 21st centuries, immigration patterns, particularly of skilled professionals and workers, have resulted in growing Hindu populations in Western countries
• Countries with significant Hindu immigrant populations include:
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Australia

Influence of Hindu Philosophy and Practices

• The influence of Hindu philosophy, yoga, and meditation practices has attracted Western converts to Hinduism
• The popularity of yoga and meditation in the West has contributed to the spread of Hinduism in non-traditional regions
• Western interest in Hindu spirituality has led to the growth of Hindu-inspired movements and organizations

Hindu Demographics: Variations and Trends

Ethnic and Regional Diversity

• The vast majority of Hindus globally are of South Asian descent, particularly Indian origin
• There are indigenous Hindu populations in Southeast Asian countries like Bali, Indonesia
• Within India, Hinduism is practiced across all states and union territories, but the proportion of Hindus varies
  • States like Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat have higher percentages of Hindus compared to the national average

Caste System and Social Stratification

• The caste system has historically shaped Hindu society in India
• Different social groups (varnas) have distinct roles and status:
  • Brahmins (priests and scholars)
  • Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers)
  • Vaishyas (merchants and traders)
  • Shudras (laborers and artisans)
• Despite legal abolishment, the influence of the caste system persists in some regions and communities
• Caste-based discrimination and socio-economic disparities remain challenges

Diversity in Hindu Diaspora Communities

• Outside of India, Hindu communities are more diverse, often reflecting the demographics of the Indian diaspora in each country
• Hindu diaspora communities may include a mix of different regional, linguistic, and caste backgrounds
• The social dynamics and cultural practices of Hindu diaspora communities may differ from those in India

Hinduism's Cultural Influence

Art, Literature, and Traditions

• Hinduism has profoundly shaped the art, architecture, literature, music, and dance traditions of India and other regions where it has a significant presence
• Hindu mythology and scriptures have inspired countless works of art, literature, and performance
• Hindu temples and architectural styles have distinct regional variations (South Indian temples, Nagara style)

Festivals, Rituals, and Social Norms

• Hindu festivals, rituals, and customs are an integral part of the cultural fabric in Hindu-majority areas
• Celebrations like Diwali (festival of lights), Holi (festival of colors), and Navaratri (nine nights) are widely observed and have regional variations
• The concepts of dharma (duty), karma (action and its consequences), and samsara (cycle of rebirth) have influenced social norms, ethical values, and family structures in Hindu societies

Political and Social Movements

• The caste system, although not an inherent part of Hindu philosophy, has historically been associated with Hinduism and has had a significant impact on social hierarchies and interactions in some regions
• Hindu teachings and practices have influenced political movements
  • Indian independence movement
  • Rise of Hindu nationalism in contemporary times

Cultural Exchange and Syncretism

• The spread of Hinduism has contributed to cultural exchange and the assimilation of Hindu elements into local traditions in regions like Southeast Asia
• Unique syncretic forms have emerged, blending Hinduism with indigenous beliefs and practices (Balinese Hinduism)
• Hinduism's influence can be seen in the art, architecture, and cultural practices of Southeast Asian countries (Angkor Wat, wayang kulit)