Delhi, the capital of India, is a lively metropolis where the intersection of history, politics, and culture all connect. Delhi is not only incredible for the cosmopolitan nature of its people, but it is diverse (the city welcomes many people from every corner of the country, bringing different languages, cuisines, faiths, and customs). While there are many religions observed in Delhi, Hinduism is the top and most popular in the city, where it is mostly the agents of the religious practice which undertake what is prevalent in both the social and cultural dynamics of life in Delhi.
Hinduism in Delhi
Hinduism is the most common religious practice in Delhi, with approximately 80% of Delhiites identifying as Hindu. There are many examples of this in the temples, religious festivals, and rituals said practice. Hindu temples in Delhi range significantly, from ancient shrine, to temples built in the last few decades that display contemporary architectural wonder. For example, the Akshardham Temple, an enormous Hindu temple that combines spirituality with incredible design; the Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place, which is one of the oldest temples in central Delhi; also worth mentioned are the Chhatarpur Temple and the Kalkaji Mandir, which bring millions (thousands every day) of devotees to their respective locations.
Hindu festivals are vibrant celebrations in Delhi. Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, and Janmashtami all envelop the city with festive decorations, processions, and community gatherings. During Dussehra large effigies of Ravana are set ablaze across the open grounds of Delhi, and Diwali is highlighted with brightly lit neighborhoods filled with oil lamps and fireworks. These festivals represent not only support for religious devotion but the spirit of togetherness and celebration of people who call Delhi home.
Other Religions in Delhi While Hinduism is a predominant religion, the cosmopolitan identity of Delhi allows ample room for other religions.
- Islam is the second most prevalent religion in Delhi. The Mughal heritage of Delhi significantly contributes to the practice of Islam in Delhi, with the Jama Masjid mosque and Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah mosque, a famous Sufi shrine visited by all faiths, as landmarks. Muslim festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are celebrated with exuberance, especially in Old Delhi and markets like Chandni Chowk with lights and food stalls.
- Delhi is likewise a city with a history of Sikhism. Gurudwaras such as Bangla Sahib and Sis Ganj Sahib are more than just places of worship, they are statements of service and equality. The gurudwaras are filled with thousands of men, women and children who are served food (called langar) at no cost, regardless of religion or origin.
- Along with Sikhism, its predominant faith, Christianity has a active presence as well. Cathedrals such as the Sacred Heart Cathedral and churches, such as St. James’ Church, provide services for major festivals such as Christmas and Easter that bring out Christians and non-Christians alike to celebrate faith with joy and food.
- Jainism and Buddhism are also practised in Delhi. The Digambar Jain Lal Mandir by the Red Fort is the oldest Jain temple in Delhi. Jain temples, as well as Buddhist centres, provide care for followers with serene and peaceful spaces to meditate.
Conclusions
Delhi is a microcosm of India due to its multicultural and multi-religious nature. Even though Hinduism is regarded as the number one and majority religion in Delhi, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Jainism and Buddhism are welcome and contribute to the pluralistic atmosphere of the city. It is this same pluralistic atmosphere that allows Delhi to be considered, not just the political capital of India, but also the cultural and spiritual capital of Indiaโwhere the infusion of various faiths and traditions catch you off guard but are celebrated in their unity and diversity every day.
