The Different Religions of South Asia

To the unaccustomed eye, the medley of 2.1 billion South Asians spanning across six countries may look very similar. However, many different cultural practices, languages, and even religions make up this region.  Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism are some of the most widely practiced religions in South Asia.

While India and Nepal make up the majority of the Hindu population in South Asia, there exist many beautiful temples and places of worship in widely Islamic countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan.  Similarly, historic mosques, prominent Buddhist and Jain temples, one-of-a-kind Sikh gurdwaras, and amazing churches exist across all countries in South Asia.

Katas Raj Temple in Pakistan

There are many smaller religions practiced or variations of the major ones outlined above, but most of the population practices the six religions and do so in harmony.  Tension and turmoil have always surrounded faith driven political issues, but one fact remains, the countries respect the practice of and protection of its people’s diverse backgrounds.

St. Aloysius Chapel of Mangalore, India