How Many Religions in Assam? Key Insights and FAQs

Assam, a beautiful state in India’s northeast, is well known for its lush tea gardens, mighty Brahmaputra River, Kaziranga wildlife, and vibrant festivals. But beyond its natural and cultural beauty, Assam is also a land of spiritual diversity, where multiple religions and ethnic groups have coexisted for centuries.

Let’s explore how many religions are there in Assam, their demographics, influence, and cultural contributions.

How Many Religions in Assam?

As per the Census of India, Assam is home to six major religions along with various indigenous and tribal belief systems. The state reflects the unique blend of mainstream Indian religions and ethnic tribal traditions, contributing to its rich and inclusive identity.

1. Hinduism

• Hinduism is the majority religion in Assam.

• Followed by around 61.5% of the population.

• Assamese Hindus include ethnic Assamese, Bengali Hindus, Bodos, Koch Rajbongshis, and others.

• Celebrated festivals: Bihu (Rongali, Bhogali, and Kongali), Durga Puja, Janmashtami, and Diwali.

• Temples like Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati are major pilgrimage centre's.

• Shaktism and Vaishnavism, particularly the Neo-Vaishnavite movement started by Srimanta Sankardev, are spiritually significant.

2. Islam

• Islam is the second-largest religion in Assam.

• Followed by around 34.2% of the population.

• Practiced by ethnic Assamese Muslims (indigenous Muslims) and Bengali-origin Muslims.

• Present in districts like Barpeta, Dhubri, Goalpara, Karimganj, and Nagaon.

• Important Islamic festivals: Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Milad-un-Nabi.

• Mosques, madrasas, and community centers are actively maintained.

3. Christianity

• Followed by around 3.7% of the population, particularly in hill districts and among tribal communities like Nagas, Kukis, Khasis, and Bodos.

• Christian missionaries played a role in education and health care, especially in remote tribal regions.

• Major festivals include Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter.

• Churches are present in many parts of Assam, particularly Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong, and Kamrup Metro.

4. Buddhism

• Practiced by a small population, mostly by the Tai Phake, Singpho, and Khamti communities in Upper Assam.

• These groups follow Theravada Buddhism, with ties to Southeast Asia.

• Buddhist monasteries (viharas) can be found in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts.

5. Sikhism

• A minor religion in Assam.

• Followed mostly by migrant Punjabi Sikhs, often engaged in agriculture or small businesses.

• Gurudwaras are present in Guwahati, Tinsukia, and a few other towns.

• Celebrations include Guru Nanak Jayanti and Baisakhi.

6. Jainism

• A very small community.

• Jains in Assam are mostly business families settled in cities like Guwahati, Silchar, and Tinsukia.

• Jain temples are few but maintained well by local communities.

7. Tribal and Indigenous Religions

• Several tribal groups such as the Bodos, Karbis, Mishings, Rabhas, Tiwas, and Dimasa follow indigenous faiths, often a blend of nature worship, animism, and ancestral reverence.

• These belief systems often integrate local deities, spirits, and community rituals, though some have gradually blended with Hindu practices.

---

FAQs: How Many Religions in Assam?

1. What is the most followed religion in Assam?

Hinduism is the majority religion, followed by approximately 61.5% of the population.

2. What is the second-largest religion in Assam?

Islam is the second-largest religion, followed by about 34.2% of the population.

3. Is Christianity significant in Assam?

Yes, Christianity is practiced by about 3.7%, mainly among tribal communities in hill districts like Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao.

4. Are there Buddhists in Assam?

Yes, though a small community, Buddhism is practiced by ethnic groups like the Tai Phake, Khamti, and Singpho in Upper Assam.

5. Are tribal religions still practiced in Assam?

Absolutely. Many indigenous tribal groups follow traditional belief systems centered around nature, spirits, and ancestral worship.

6. Is Sikhism practiced in Assam?

Yes, but in small numbers, mostly by migrant Punjabi Sikhs in cities like Guwahati and Tinsukia.

7. Are Jains present in Assam?

Yes, Jains are a tiny minority, primarily in business communities in cities like Guwahati and Silchar.