Indian Sates with the Highest Muslim Population

 Indian Sates with the Highest Muslim Population 

India's diverse religious fabric

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India's diverse religious fabric

India, known for its diverse cultural and religious fabric, is home to a significant Muslim population. Islam is the second-largest religion in the country, with Muslims constituting around 14.2% of the total population according to the 2011 Census. This article explores the Indian states with the highest Muslim populations, highlighting key details about each region.

Uttar Pradesh

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Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, has a substantial Muslim population. As of the 2011 Census, Muslims make up approximately 19.26% of the state’s population, translating to over 38 million individuals. Cities like Lucknow, Aligarh, and Varanasi have significant Muslim communities. The state has a rich history of Islamic culture, with landmarks such as the Taj Mahal in Agra and the Bara Imambara in Lucknow. The influence of Muslim rulers, particularly during the Mughal era, is evident in the state’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

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West Bengal

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West Bengal

West Bengal, located in eastern India, has a notable Muslim population, comprising about 27% of its total population. This translates to over 24 million Muslims as per the 2011 Census. The districts of Murshidabad, Malda, and North 24 Parganas have particularly high concentrations of Muslims. Kolkata, the state capital, is known for its cultural diversity and historical significance. The state’s Muslim community has contributed significantly to its cultural and social fabric, with festivals like Eid being celebrated with great enthusiasm.

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Bihar

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Bihar

Bihar, situated in eastern India, has a Muslim population of around 16.87%, which amounts to over 17 million people according to the 2011 Census. The districts of Kishanganj, Araria, and Purnia have the highest concentrations of Muslims. Bihar has a rich Islamic heritage, with historical sites such as the ancient city of Sasaram and the tomb of Sher Shah Suri. The state’s Muslim community plays a vital role in its socio-economic landscape, contributing to various fields such as education, politics, and business.

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Maharashtra

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Maharashtra

Maharashtra has a significant Muslim population, making up about 11.54% of the state’s total population. This equates to over 12 million Muslims as per the 2011 Census. Mumbai, the state capital, is home to a large Muslim community and is known for its diverse cultural milieu. The city has several prominent mosques, including the Haji Ali Dargah and the Jama Masjid. Maharashtra’s Muslim population is actively involved in various sectors, including film, business, and politics.

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Assam

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Assam

Assam, located in northeastern India, has a Muslim population of approximately 34.22%, which translates to over 10 million individuals according to the 2011 Census. The districts of Dhubri, Barpeta, and Goalpara have the highest concentrations of Muslims. Assam’s Muslim community has a unique cultural identity, influenced by both indigenous Assamese and Bengali traditions. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and cuisine, with the Muslim community playing a significant role in its cultural landscape.

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Kerala

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Kerala

Kerala, a southern Indian state, has a Muslim population of about 26.56%, amounting to over 8 million people as per the 2011 Census. The districts of Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur have particularly high concentrations of Muslims. Kerala’s Muslim community is known for its educational achievements and active participation in the state’s socio-economic development. The state has a rich history of trade and cultural exchange, with the Muslim community contributing significantly to its diverse cultural heritage.

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​Jammu and Kashmir

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​Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir, a union territory in northern India, has the highest percentage of Muslims in the country, with around 68.31% of its population adhering to Islam. This translates to over 8.5 million Muslims according to the 2011 Census. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Kashmir Valley, Dal Lake, and the Himalayan mountains. The Muslim community in Jammu and Kashmir has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional crafts, music, and cuisine playing a significant role in the region’s identity.

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Lakshadweep

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Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep, a union territory consisting of a group of islands in the Arabian Sea, has the highest proportion of Muslims in India, with 96.58% of its population following Islam. This amounts to over 60,000 Muslims as per the 2011 Census. The islands are known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and unique cultural heritage. The Muslim community in Lakshadweep has a distinct cultural identity, influenced by both Indian and Arab traditions. The region’s economy is primarily based on fishing, coconut cultivation, and tourism, with the Muslim community playing a central role in these activities.

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Muslim population in India has increased tremendously since Independence. The share of the community which was 9% in 1947 has increased to an estimated 16-18% in 2024. Special population control legislation needs to be enacted by parliament so that the share of all religious communities in India is restored to the level of their proportion at Independence.