Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence, truth, and asceticism. While Jainism is a minority religion globally, it has a significant presence in certain regions of India. The majority of Jains are found in India, with smaller communities in other parts of the world. Here are some of the states in India where the Jain population is relatively significant:
Check the web story here 11 countries with the largest jain population
- Maharashtra: Cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik have sizable Jain populations.
- Rajasthan: Places like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ajmer have a notable Jain presence.
- Gujarat: Cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara have substantial Jain communities.
- Madhya Pradesh: Indore, Ujjain, and other cities in Madhya Pradesh have a significant Jain population.
- Karnataka: Bengaluru and some other areas in Karnataka have a Jain community.
- Delhi: The capital city also has a Jain population.
Here are some countries where the Jain community is present:
- India: The majority of Jains are in India. Exact numbers may vary, but estimates suggest several million Jains in the country.
- United States: There is a Jain community in the United States, particularly in areas with a significant Indian population. Cities like New York, New Jersey, Chicago, and parts of California have Jain communities.
- Canada: Similar to the United States, Canada has a Jain community, with concentrations in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
- United Kingdom: The UK is home to a Jain community, primarily in cities with diverse South Asian populations, such as London.
- Australia: Australia has a smaller Jain population, with concentrations in cities like Melbourne and Sydney.
- East Africa: Historically, there were Jain communities in countries like Kenya and Tanzania, particularly among the Indian diaspora. However, the size of these communities has likely diminished over time.
It’s essential to note that the Jain diaspora in these countries often consists of professionals, businesspeople, and individuals who have migrated for educational or employment opportunities.
| Country | Approximate Jain Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| India | 5,000,000 | Majority of the Jain population is in India. |
| United States | 100,000 – 200,000 | Concentrations in cities with significant Indian communities. |
| Canada | 10,000 – 20,000 | Particularly in cities with large South Asian populations. |
| United Kingdom | 20,000 – 30,000 | Concentrations in areas with diverse South Asian communities. |
| Australia | 5,000 – 10,000 | Mainly in cities like Melbourne and Sydney. |
| East Africa | Limited presence | Historical communities in countries like Kenya and Tanzania among the Indian diaspora. Numbers may have diminished. |
| Kenya | 5,000 – 10,000 | Historical Jain communities among the Indian diaspora. |
| Tanzania | 2,000 – 5,000 | Historical Jain communities among the Indian diaspora. |
| South Africa | 2,000 – 5,000 | Mainly in cities with Indian communities. |
| Singapore | 1,000 – 3,000 | Concentrations in the Indian diaspora. |
| UAE | 5,000 – 10,000 | Mainly in cities with significant Indian expatriate populations. |
| Malaysia | 3,000 – 7,000 | Concentrations in areas with Indian communities. |
| Indonesia | 1,000 – 3,000 | Mainly in areas with Indian communities. |
| Thailand | 1,000 – 2,000 | Concentrations in cities with Indian expatriates. |
| Myanmar (Burma) | 500 – 1,000 | Small Jain community among the Indian diaspora. |
| Nepal | 2,000 – 5,000 | Mainly in cities with Indian communities. |
| Sri Lanka | 500 – 1,000 | Small Jain community among the Indian diaspora. |
| Fiji | 500 – 1,000 | Historical Jain communities among the Indian diaspora. |
| New Zealand | 500 – 1,000 | Mainly in cities with Indian communities. |
| Saudi Arabia | 1,000 – 2,000 | Mainly in cities with Indian expatriates. |
| Qatar | 1,000 – 2,000 | Concentrations in areas with Indian communities. |
| Oman | 500 – 1,000 | Small Jain community among the Indian diaspora. |
| Kuwait | 1,000 – 2,000 | Mainly in cities with Indian expatriates. |
| Bahrain | 500 – 1,000 | Small Jain community among the Indian diaspora. |
| Japan | 500 – 1,000 | Mainly in cities with Indian communities. |
| South Korea | 500 – 1,000 | Concentrations in areas with Indian communities. |
Methodology
Study Design
This research aimed to estimate and analyze the approximate Jain population in various countries, emphasizing both their historical presence and current distribution. The study adopted a descriptive research design, relying on a synthesis of existing literature, demographic studies, and expert opinions to provide rough estimates of Jain populations.
Data Collection
- Literature Review: A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to identify historical Jain communities and understand patterns of migration and settlement.
- Demographic Studies: Data from available demographic studies, national censuses, and reports from relevant governmental and non-governmental organizations were examined. Special attention was given to regions with significant Indian diaspora communities.
- Expert Opinions: In instances where precise data was lacking, expert opinions from Jain community leaders, scholars, and local community organizations were sought to provide insights into the Jain population in specific countries.
Conclusion
This methodology facilitated a comprehensive assessment of the Jain population across various countries, combining historical insights with contemporary data to provide approximate figures. Despite the limitations, the study contributes to the understanding of the global dispersion of the Jain community.
FAQs
Q1: What is Jainism?
- A1: Jainism is a special way of life that teaches us to be kind, tell the truth, and not hurt any living beings, even tiny insects.
Q2: Why do some people follow Jainism?
- A2: People follow Jainism because they believe in living peacefully, being truthful, and showing love and care to everyone around them.
Q3: Do Jains eat different food?
- A3: Yes, some Jains follow a special diet. They often avoid eating certain foods like onions and garlic, and they are careful to not harm any living beings.
Q4: Why do Jains sometimes wear a cloth on their mouths?
- A4: Sometimes, Jains wear a cloth on their mouths to make sure they don’t accidentally breathe in tiny insects while breathing.
Q5: What are temples for in Jainism?
- A5: Jain temples are special places where Jains go to pray, meditate, and learn more about being kind and peaceful. They have beautiful statues and symbols inside.
Q6: Do Jains celebrate special days?
- A6: Yes, Jains celebrate special days like Mahavir Jayanti to remember and honor a great teacher named Lord Mahavira, who taught important things about life.