Future Projections: Hindu Population Growth Across Various Nations

A recent study by the Pew Research Center reveals significant growth in the Hindu population across various countries by 2050. India is projected to lead with 1.297 billion Hindus, followed by Nepal and Bangladesh. The report highlights the increasing numbers in the United States and Indonesia as well. Additionally, it notes that the populations of Christians and Muslims are also expected to rise, potentially reaching parity for the first time. This demographic shift raises important questions about cultural and religious dynamics in these regions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 7, 2026, 20:35 IST

Hindu Population Growth Forecast

According to research conducted by a prominent American think tank, the Pew Research Center, the Hindu population is expected to rise significantly in several countries over the coming years. By 2050, it is projected that Hindus will make up approximately 15% of the global population.

India is anticipated to have the largest Hindu population, potentially reaching 1.297 billion by 2050. Besides India, other nations where the Hindu population is expected to grow include the following.

Following India, Nepal ranks second, with an estimated Hindu population of 38.12 million. According to the 2011 census, around 81.3% of the Nepalese identified as Hindu. This nation was declared a Hindu state until it became secular in 2006.

Bangladesh is third on the list, where Hindus are a minority, comprising about 8.96% of the population as per the 2011 census. The Hindu population in Bangladesh is projected to increase significantly in the future.

Pakistan will hold the fourth position, with an expected Hindu population of approximately 5.63 million. Currently, the situation for Hindus in Pakistan is quite challenging.

The United States is projected to have around 4.78 million Hindus by 2050, up from 2.23 million in 2015, according to the Pew Research Center.

In Indonesia, the Hindu population is expected to reach 4.15 million by 2050. Although Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, the Hindu community is experiencing growth.

Besides the aforementioned countries, the Pew Research Center also indicates potential growth in the Hindu populations of Sri Lanka, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The research suggests that not only Hindus but also Christians and Muslims will see significant population increases, with projections indicating that the populations of Christians and Muslims may become nearly equal for the first time in the near future.

Currently, Indonesia has the highest Muslim population, with approximately 219.96 million Muslims. India follows with a Muslim population of about 194.81 million. According to Pew Research, by 2060, India is expected to become the country with the largest Muslim population, reaching around 333.09 million.

By 2060, it is estimated that 96.5% of Pakistan's total population will be Muslim, with Nigeria ranking third with a Muslim population of approximately 283.1 million.