Projected Growth of Hindu Population in Various Countries by 2050

A recent study by the Pew Research Center reveals significant growth in the Hindu population across various countries by 2050. India is expected to lead with 1.297 billion Hindus, followed by Nepal and Bangladesh. The report highlights the increasing numbers in countries like the USA and Indonesia, while also noting the challenges faced by Hindus in Pakistan. Additionally, it discusses the anticipated rise in Christian and Muslim populations, suggesting a shift in global demographics. This article delves into these projections and their implications for the future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 26, 2026, 04:17 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 increase significantly in several countries over the coming decades. By the year 2050, it is estimated that Hindus will make up approximately 15% of the global population.

India is projected to have the largest Hindu population, potentially reaching 1.297 billion by 2050. Besides India, other countries where the Hindu population is anticipated to rise include the following:

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

Bangladesh comes in third on this list. The 2011 census indicated that Hindus constitute a minority in Bangladesh, making up about 8.96% of the population. The Hindu population in this country is expected to grow significantly in the future.

Pakistan is projected to be fourth, with an estimated 5.63 million Hindus. However, the current situation for Hindus in Pakistan is quite challenging.

The United States is expected to rank fifth, with the Pew Research Center estimating that the Hindu population will reach 4.78 million by 2050. In 2015, the Hindu population in the U.S. was recorded at 2.23 million.

In Indonesia, the Hindu population is projected to be around 4.15 million by 2050. Although Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, the Hindu community is experiencing growth.

Besides the countries mentioned, the Pew Research Center also notes that the Hindu population may increase in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Their research indicates that not only the Hindu population but also the Christian and Muslim populations are expected to rise significantly. By the future, the populations of Christians and Muslims may become nearly equal worldwide.

Currently, Indonesia has the largest 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 projected to become the country with the highest 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, having a Muslim population of approximately 283.1 million.