Islam, a monotheistic religion, based on the holy text Quran and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

Islam means “Submission to God” and followers of Islam are called Muslims. Second largest religion on the globe that reveals God is one and incomparable. Religious practice includes Five Pillars of Islam, five obligatory acts of worship based on Islamic law. Shia and Sunni are two denominations in Muslims. Indonesia, South Asia is the largest Muslim country after Middle East. 

There are 30 million Christians in India, how did it evolve amidst the dominant and pre-existing religions?  

Christianity with 30 million followers is the third-largest religion in India. Historians state Apostle Thomas introduced the religion in 52 AD, while visiting Muziris in Kerala. He established a Church that ran parallel with the Hindu belief and customs. The divinity of Jesus Christ and Holy Communion was communal with reincarnation, sharing of Prasad and karma. 

Sikhism is the fifth-largest monotheistic religion on the globe, founded in 15^th century Punjab, India.

Sikhism with 26 million followers worldwide, evolved in 15^th century India based on the teachings of ten Sikh Gurus. The religious philosophy (Gurmat) includes salvation through faith, justice and personal meditation on God’s message. Guru Granth Sahib is their decree and the holy book. Sikhism traditions and beliefs are interrelated with history, society and culture of Punjab. 

Jainism originated in 6^th century BC in opposition to demanding practises and rituals of Hinduism.

Jainism with over 5,000,000 followers in India evolved as a protest against stringent Hindu practises like sacrificial cults. Mahavira, the 24^th tirthankara (saint) laid the foundation of the religion. He preached asceticism and solicitude for attaining nirvana and liberating the soul from the vicious cycle of birth and re-birth. Jainism divided into two sects Digambaras (naked) and the Svetambaras (white-clothed).

Buddhism originated in 563 BC, teaches spiritual peace and renouncement. Prince Siddhartha Gautama laid the foundation of this religion. 

Buddhism is a way of life, a practical approach to finding peace with oneself. Followers of Buddhism do not worship idols or Gods instead follow an eightfold path to live a meaningful life. Non-violence, correct speech, conduct, efforts, livelihood and aspirations are some of the teachings that make Buddhism the fourth largest religion in the world today. 

Hinduism native to India relates to a wide array of religious traditions and customs.  How did it originate?

The origins of this ancient religion is unknown, however historians believe Hinduism emerged from the traditions of Iron Age as a revival of Vedic traditions, and preached its philosophy under six branches - Samkhya, Nyaya, Yoga, Vaisheshika, Vedanta and Mimamsa. With appearance of Bharatiya Janata Party in politics, 1980s, Hinduism further strengthened its roots in 20^th century India.