Excerpt: Karnataka, a state in southwest India known for its technological hubs, silk production, and rich heritage, hosts a significant Muslim community alongside its Hindu majority. Spread across coastal, northern, and central regions, Karnataka’s Muslims contribute to the state’s economy through trade, education, and industry, while preserving cultural traditions in urban and rural settings.

According to the 2011 Census, Karnataka’s total population stands at approximately 61,095,297, of which 7,893,065 are Muslims, forming 12.92% of the state’s population^[2][3]

Kannada is the lingua franca, while Urdu remains culturally significant among Muslim communities. Urban centers like Bangalore and Belgaum display higher Muslim engagement in IT, education, and commerce, whereas rural and northern districts rely on agriculture, handicrafts, and small-scale trade.

Top 10 Districts by Muslim Population in Karnataka

The above districts in the chart with the highest share of Muslims in Karnataka show how history, trade, and jobs have shaped the population. Dakshina Kannada (24.02%) is highest due to its coastal trade links with Arab merchants. Gulbarga and Dharwad have high shares because of their Muslim rulers in the past. In places like Haveri, Bijapur, and Raichur, many Muslims work in farming and crafts. In Kodagu and Bellary, they work in plantations and mines. These areas also have strong community institutions.

The above districts in the chart with the lowest Muslim population share in Karnataka are mostly rural and agrarian. Mandya (4.31%) and Chamarajanagar (4.62%) have limited urbanization and smaller Muslim communities engaged in farming and local trade. Districts like Hassan, Chitradurga, and Udupi also have low Muslim presence due to historical Hindu dominance and fewer migration patterns. Bangalore Rural, Tumkur, and Vijaynagara show slightly higher shares due to proximity to cities or mixed economies, but overall, these areas have minimal Muslim cultural influence.

Mandya (4.31%), Chamarajanagar (4.62%), and Hassan (6.76%) record the lowest Muslim proportions, reflecting historic agrarian patterns and limited urbanization.

Total Muslim vs Non-Muslim Population in Karnataka (2011 Census)

Muslims constitute 12.92% of Karnataka’s population, while non-Muslims account for 87.08%, highlighting a notable minority presence across diverse districts.

Muslim vs Hindu Population in Karnataka (2001 & 2011 Census)

Between 2001 and 2011, Karnataka’s Muslim population grew by 22.12%, outpacing Hindu growth of 15.79%, driven by urban migration and higher natural growth in northern and coastal pockets^[4]

Districts with Highest Muslim Density per 100,000 People in Karnataka

Coastal Dakshina Kannada and central Dharwad boast the highest Muslim densities, reflecting historic trading hubs and industrial centers.

Small Population Districts with Low Muslim Percentage

Kodagu, Udupi, and Chikmagalur, though smaller in population, maintain below-average Muslim shares, influenced by local agrarian and plantation economies.

Belgaum: With 4,779,661 residents, Belgaum houses 528,412 Muslims (11.06%). Nestled at Karnataka’s northern border, it blends textile, agriculture, and stone-cutting industries. Muslims engage in trade, education, and transport services. The region’s syncretic culture is palpable during Ramadan and Eid gatherings across city mosques and rural madrasas.

Bagalkot: Bagalkot’s 1,889,752 population includes 219,991 Muslims (11.64%). Known for its limestone and agriculture, Muslims here run tile works, shops, and small eateries. Community life centers around local dargahs, with festivals like Urs and Eid drawing devotees from neighboring villages.

Bijapur: Bijapur reports 2,177,331 people, with 369,588 Muslims (16.97%). Famous for its Gol Gumbaz and historical sultanate remnants, the district’s Muslim artisans flourish in stone carving, tailoring, and small-scale tourism. Religious tourism sustains many families, bolstering local markets.

Bidar: Bidar’s 1,703,300 residents include 335,184 Muslims (19.68%), the second-highest share in the state. Renowned for its Bidriware handicrafts, Muslims dominate metal inlay workshops and carpet weaving. Community bonds strengthen during Muharram processions and urs at Sufi shrines.

Raichur: Among 1,928,812 people, Raichur hosts 272,022 Muslims (14.10%). An agrarian district straddling the Krishna River, Muslims engage in paddy cultivation, trade of agricultural inputs, and small transport businesses. Friday prayers in Raichur town unite diverse sub-communities.

Koppal: Koppal’s 1,389,920 population includes 161,770 Muslims (11.64%). With its rich temple architecture and mining sites, the district’s Muslims are employed in service trades, goldsmithing, and local commerce. Communal harmony is evident during shared harvest festivals.

Gadag: Out of 1,064,570 inhabitants, 143,665 are Muslims (13.50%). Gadag’s textile mills and agricultural markets employ many Muslims as traders, weavers, and transporters. Community centers offer madrasas and vocational training, strengthening youth engagement.

Dharwad: Dharwad counts 1,847,023 people, with 386,834 Muslims (20.94%), the highest share in the state. Known for its educational institutions, Muslims participate actively as students and faculty. The district’s cultural festivals showcase Qawwali performances and interfaith music events.

Uttara Kannada: Uttara Kannada’s 1,437,169 population includes 187,974 Muslims (13.08%). Coastal ports and fishing hubs employ Muslims in marine trade, shipbuilding, and fisheries commerce. Eid al-Fitr celebrations see communal feasts along the Arabian Sea coast.

Haveri: With 1,597,668 residents, Haveri has 297,927 Muslims (18.65%). A hub for cotton ginning and oil mills, Muslims here own and operate several agro-based businesses. Friday congregations at historic mosques bind urban and rural congregants alike.

Bellary: Bellary’s 1,300,246 population includes 195,146 Muslims (15.01%). Mining and steel industries attract Muslim labor, entrepreneurs, and traders. Community welfare associations run vocational centers, promoting skill development among youth.

Chitradurga: Among 1,659,456 people, Chitradurga has 128,751 Muslims (7.76%), one of the lower shares. Known for its fortress and granite trade, Muslims run small quarries, tailoring shops, and local eateries. Intercommunity markets foster social cohesion.

Davanagere: Davanagere’s 1,643,494 residents include 237,747 Muslims (14.47%). Known as the “Manchester of Karnataka” for its cotton mills, Muslims engage in textile trading, road transport, and garment manufacturing. Religious schools complement secular education in urban pockets.

Shimoga: Shimoga’s 1,752,753 population hosts 234,664 Muslims (13.39%). With forestry and hydropower projects, Muslims take roles in administration, trade, and service sectors. Eid processions weave through the scenic Tunga River banks.

Udupi: Udupi, with 1,177,361 people, includes 96,740 Muslims (8.22%). A coastal temple town renowned for cuisine, Muslims run seafood businesses, hotels, and pilgrim services. Interfaith dining experiences during Ramadan draw locals and visitors alike.

Chikmagalur: Chikmagalur, with 1,137,961 residents, counts 101,235 Muslims (8.90%). Renowned for its coffee plantations and hill stations, Muslims participate in plantation labor, small-scale hospitality, and café businesses. Local mosques in Kadur and Mudigere host seasonal festivals, while younger generations engage in hospitality and eco‐tourism ventures.

Tumkur: Tumkur’s 2,678,980 population includes 245,923 Muslims (9.18%). An industrially diversified district on the Bangalore highway, Muslims work in manufacturing units, transport logistics, and roadside businesses. Community centers in Tumakuru town provide vocational training and religious education, fostering socio‐economic upliftment.

Bangalore Urban: Karnataka’s capital region, with 9,621,551 people, has 1,248,294 Muslims (12.97%). As an IT and service hub, Muslims excel in professional services, entrepreneurship, and academia. Prominent mosques in Shivajinagar and Frazer Town host major Eid congregations. Community NGOs also run skill‐development and women’s empowerment programs.

Mandya: Mandya’s agrarian landscape of 1,805,769 inhabitants includes 77,801 Muslims (4.31%), the lowest share in the state. Muslims here predominantly engage in livestock rearing, sugarcane trade, and small retail outlets. The community observes collective iftars during Ramadan, strengthening ties with Hindu neighbors.

Hassan: Hassan’s 1,776,421 people encompass 120,011 Muslims (6.76%). Known for its temple architecture and coffee estates, Muslims here manage plantation labor, small hotels, and local transport. Community life revolves around mosques in Hassan city and spiritual gatherings at Urs festivals.

Dakshina Kannada: Home to 2,089,649 residents, including 501,896 Muslims (24.02%), the highest share in Karnataka, this coastal district thrives on fisheries, cashew processing, and port trade. Muslims dominate medium‐scale commerce and logistics in Mangalore. Annual cultural events like Yakshagana include significant Muslim participation.

Kodagu: In Kodagu’s 554,519 population, 87,274 are Muslims (15.74%). Known for coffee and spice plantations, Muslims work as plantation supervisors, café owners, and guides. Community halls in Madikeri host interfaith cultural evenings, reflecting peaceful coexistence.

Mysore: Mysore, with 3,001,127 inhabitants, has 290,549 Muslims (9.68%). Famous for its palace and silk industry, Muslims contribute to silk weaving, power‐loom operations, and tourism services. The annual Mysore Dasara sees Muslim artisans crafting festival paraphernalia alongside Hindu artisans.

Chamarajanagar: Chamarajanagar’s 1,020,791 people include 47,210 Muslims (4.62%). A predominantly rural district near the Tamil Nadu border, Muslims engage in cattle trade, forest produce commerce, and small shops. Friday bazaars in towns like Kollegal facilitate intercultural exchange.

Gulbarga: Gulbarga (Kalaburagi), with 2,566,326 residents, counts 513,125 Muslims (19.99%). A historic Sultanate seat, Muslims here dominate tile manufacturing, brick kilns, and wholesale trade. Religious education flourishes in madrasas, and Sufi shrines draw pilgrims across the Deccan.

Yadgir: Yadgir’s 1,174,271 population includes 155,340 Muslims (13.23%). An agro‐industrial district, Muslims work in rice mills, textile looms, and transport services. Community-driven health camps and literacy programs operate from mosque complexes.

Kolar: Of 1,536,401 inhabitants, 199,873 are Muslims (13.01%). Formerly a gold‐mining hub, today its Muslims run goldsmith workshops, retail jewelry, and agricultural supply stores. Community Eid melas (fairs) foster interreligious harmony in Kolar town.

Chikkaballapura: Chikkaballapura’s 1,255,104 people include 147,810 Muslims (11.78%). Near Bangalore, Muslims engage in dairy production, sericulture, and commuting to urban jobs. Mosque committees here focus on youth mentorship and sports activities.

Bangalore Rural: In the rural periphery of 990,923 people, 92,252 are Muslims (9.31%). Engaged in agriculture, stone quarrying, and peri‐urban services, Muslims commute to Bangalore Urban for work. Community centers offer language classes and microfinance support.

Ramanagara: Ramanagara’s 1,082,636 residents include 114,311 Muslims (10.56%). Known for its silk cocoons and granite quarries, Muslims run cocoon‐trading businesses and stone‐cutting workshops. Interfaith cultural festivals in Ramanagara town bring communities together.

Vijaynagara: Vijaynagara’s 1,454,352 people include 153,746 Muslims (10.57%). A newly formed district with heritage ruins, Muslims here participate in tourism services, agriculture, and local handicrafts. Community youth groups organize educational workshops in Hoovina Hadagalli and Hampi taluks.

Muslim Population by District in Karnataka (2011 Census)

Excerpt: Odisha, a culturally rich and resource-abundant state in eastern India, is known for its temples, tribal diversity, and coastal beauty. While the majority of the population follows Hinduism, a small yet significant Muslim community is spread across its urban and semi-urban districts. These communities, though limited in number, contribute to the cultural and economic landscape through commerce, education, and traditional practices.

According to the 2011 Census, Odisha has a total population of approximately 41.97 million, of which about 961,772 are Muslims, forming 2.29% of the total population^[5]. Muslim presence is concentrated in coastal districts like Bhadrak, Cuttack, and Jagatsinghapur, with lower representation in tribal-dominated western and southern areas.

Odia and tribal languages dominate daily communication in Odisha, while Urdu holds traditional value in Muslim localities. Coastal regions exhibit stronger Muslim participation in trade, handicrafts, and fisheries, while western tribal belts remain less penetrated demographically.

Top 10 Muslim Populated Districts in Odisha

Districts with Lowest Muslim Percentage (Below 0.35%)

Tribal and forested districts like Debagarh (0.23%) and Kandhamal (0.29%) show minimal Muslim presence, attributed to rugged terrain, cultural insularity, and lack of historical settlement by Muslim groups.

Total Muslim vs Non-Muslim Population in Odisha (2011 Census)

Muslim vs Hindu Population in Odisha (2001 & 2011 Census)

Districts with Highest Muslim Density per 100,000 People

Small Population Districts with Low Muslim Percentage

Debagarh, Baudh, and Malkangiri are low-density, tribal districts with sparse Muslim presence. Their geographic isolation and indigenous demography have historically limited Muslim migration and settlement.

Bargarh: Bargarh district has a population of 1,481,255, including 7,527 Muslims, making up just 0.51%. Located in western Odisha, it is predominantly Hindu and agricultural. The Muslim community is engaged in tailoring, petty trading, and agricultural labor. Despite their small numbers, they are integrated within the district’s economy, participating in weekly markets and religious observances. Infrastructure for the community includes a few mosques and informal schools spread across rural blocks.

Jharsuguda: Jharsuguda, an industrial district in northwestern Odisha, has 579,505 residents and 12,783 Muslims, accounting for 2.21% of the population. The Muslim community here is largely urban, concentrated around the city and involved in small businesses, transport services, and metalwork. The community benefits from relatively better access to education and religious institutions, with mosques present in major towns like Jharsuguda and Brajarajnagar.

Sambalpur: Sambalpur has a total population of 1,041,099, including 20,120 Muslims (1.93%). Known for its textile industry and Hirakud Dam, Muslims are active in the weaving sector, small shops, and local trade. Sambalpur town hosts the majority of the community, which maintains cultural cohesion through mosques and community associations. Though not very populous, the Muslim presence is economically visible and culturally rooted.

Debagarh: Debagarh, with 312,520 people, has just 704 Muslims, representing only 0.23% of the population. This hilly and forested district in western Odisha is sparsely populated and predominantly tribal. Muslims are almost absent from remote villages, with a few small households found in the district headquarters. Their occupations include minor trading and manual work. Religious infrastructure is minimal due to the negligible population.

Sundargarh: With 2,093,437 residents, Sundargarh has a significant Muslim population of 71,391 (3.41%). The district’s urban hubs like Rourkela serve as centers for Muslim employment in education, retail, and metal industries. The community is diverse and well-integrated, supported by multiple mosques, madrasas, and social organizations. Many are engaged in small and medium-scale enterprises, contributing to the region’s industrial growth.

Kendujhar: Kendujhar district has a population of 1,801,733, with 27,752 Muslims, forming 1.54%. Situated in a mineral-rich zone, Muslim residents are engaged in mining-related services, welding, and small trade. Although scattered, the community thrives in urban areas like Keonjhar town. Religious life revolves around a few central mosques, and access to education has improved. Despite being a tribal-majority region, social coexistence is generally peaceful.

Mayurbhanj: Mayurbhanj, Odisha’s largest district by area, has 2,519,738 people and 33,706 Muslims (1.34%). The district is predominantly tribal, with the Muslim population centered in towns like Baripada. Most are employed in agriculture-related activities, rural trade, and traditional tailoring. The community maintains several mosques and small madrasa schools. Religious festivals like Eid are celebrated peacefully among diverse ethnic groups, reflecting cultural harmony.

Baleshwar: Baleshwar (Balasore) has a population of 2,320,529, with 94,254 Muslims (4.06%). Located on the coast, the district has a vibrant Muslim presence in both towns and rural markets. Many are involved in fisheries, traditional crafts, and retail. Balasore city and nearby blocks house mosques, madrasas, and Urdu schools, sustaining cultural life. The district ranks among the top in terms of both population and density of Muslims.

Bhadrak: Bhadrak is home to 1,506,337 people and 104,202 Muslims, making up 6.92%—the highest percentage in Odisha. A hub of religious coexistence, Bhadrak’s Muslim population is active in education, retail, and transport sectors. Communities here are well-organized, with numerous mosques, Urdu schools, and religious trusts. Known for its social harmony, the district also sees strong participation in local governance and public life from the Muslim community.

Kendrapara: With 1,440,361 residents, Kendrapara includes 50,247 Muslims (3.49%). Located on the Mahanadi delta, it has thriving fishing and agrarian economies. Muslims here are often engaged in fish trading, boat-making, and textile work. The community is socially active with many mosques and charitable schools. Kendrapara is also known for cooperative Hindu-Muslim relationships, particularly during religious festivities and community development activities.

Jagatsinghapur: Jagatsinghapur district has 1,136,971 people and 46,929 Muslims (4.13%). With a high literacy rate, the Muslim community here is involved in education, retail, and civil services. Concentrated in urban blocks, they benefit from schools, madrasas, and a strong cultural legacy. Peaceful coexistence and interfaith engagement are notable features of Muslim life in the region, especially during Eid and local festivals.

Cuttack: Cuttack, with a population of 2,624,470, has the largest Muslim population in Odisha—141,263 (5.38%). A major urban center, Cuttack is a historical hub of Islamic scholarship and Urdu culture. Muslims are prominent in trade, education, and healthcare sectors. Mosques, madrasas, and heritage sites like Qadam-e-Rasool signify a deep-rooted presence. The city fosters cultural vibrancy and civic engagement across all communities.

Jajapur: Jajapur district hosts 1,827,192 people, including 93,642 Muslims (5.12%). Located in the coastal belt, Jajapur has a sizable and active Muslim community involved in agriculture, garment trading, and mobile services. The district has numerous mosques, religious schools, and active social organizations. The peaceful coexistence of communities has helped foster development-oriented collaboration in the region.

Dhenkanal: Dhenkanal has a population of 1,192,811, with just 4,805 Muslims (0.40%). The district is largely agrarian and tribal, with a sparse Muslim presence mostly found in small market towns. Muslims are typically engaged in mechanical repair shops, tailoring, and grocery businesses. Religious facilities are limited, but communal harmony is strong and evident during local celebrations.

Anugul: Anugul district is home to 1,273,821 people, of which 7,512 are Muslims (0.59%). Known for its coal and aluminum industries, the Muslim community here is small but visible in towns like Angul and Talcher. Occupations include shopkeeping, transportation, and labor. The community maintains basic religious infrastructure and enjoys peaceful integration in industrial environments.

Nayagarh: With 962,789 people, Nayagarh includes 5,278 Muslims (0.55%). A quiet, agrarian district, it has a small Muslim population focused on trade, tailoring, and school-level education. Infrastructure includes a few mosques and one or two religious schools. Despite their small numbers, Muslims here participate actively in village and town-level economic life.

Khordha: Khordha, including the capital city Bhubaneswar, has a population of 2,251,673 and 84,060 Muslims (3.73%). Urban and upwardly mobile, the community is well-represented in IT, education, and business. With major mosques, madrasas, and Islamic cultural centers, Khordha offers one of the most advanced living standards for Muslims in Odisha. The population is highly literate and cosmopolitan in outlook.

Puri: Puri district houses 1,698,730 people and 46,094 Muslims (2.71%). While famous for the Jagannath Temple, Puri also maintains an active Muslim presence in beachside trade, fisheries, and street food. The community is clustered around towns like Pipili and Satyabadi. Infrastructure includes mosques, madrasas, and small schools. Interfaith harmony is a hallmark of the district.

Ganjam: Ganjam is Odisha’s most populous district with 3,529,031 residents but only 13,315 Muslims (0.38%). Muslims are few and mainly found in urban blocks like Berhampur. Occupations include tailoring, mobile services, and vending. The district’s strong migration trend toward southern states affects the local population structure. Religious institutions are minimal but functional.

Gajapati: Gajapati has a population of 577,817 with just 1,556 Muslims (0.27%). A tribal district in southern Odisha, its Muslim population is sparse and mostly involved in livestock trading and weekly markets. Settlement is confined to specific semi-urban centers like Paralakhemundi. Cultural integration is minimal, but cohabitation is peaceful.

Kandhamal: Kandhamal, known for its forest cover and tribal dominance, has 733,110 people and only 2,138 Muslims (0.29%). The community here is extremely small, largely composed of traders and transport workers. Social infrastructure is nearly absent, though religious practices continue quietly. Peaceful coexistence has improved post-2008 communal disturbances, thanks to reconciliation efforts.

Baudh: With 441,162 residents and 1,007 Muslims (0.23%), Baudh has one of Odisha’s lowest Muslim percentages. The community is engaged in low-scale trade and small construction services. There are very few mosques or educational institutions. Muslim families are mainly based in district headquarters and nearby markets, maintaining cultural identity while integrating with the rural surroundings.

Balangir: Balangir has a population of 1,648,997 and 7,811 Muslims (0.47%). Located in western Odisha, the community here is involved in tailoring, farming, and handicrafts. Towns like Balangir and Titlagarh serve as commercial hubs for the Muslim population. Despite limited size, community infrastructure includes a few mosques and community centers.

Nuapada: With 610,382 people and 4,952 Muslims (0.81%), Nuapada is a tribal-dominated district bordering Chhattisgarh. The Muslim community here is small and centered around the district headquarters. Activities include mobile vending, embroidery, and cycle repair. Religious institutions are limited to town areas, but inter-community relations remain strong and cooperative.

Kalahandi: Kalahandi’s 1,576,869 residents include 4,975 Muslims (0.32%). This historically underdeveloped district has a sparse Muslim population mainly in Bhawanipatna and surrounding towns. Engagement includes small trades, construction, and labor. Due to socio-economic backwardness, infrastructure remains underdeveloped. However, religious identity is preserved through familial networks and traditional practices.

Rayagada: Rayagada has 967,911 people and 4,607 Muslims (0.48%). A tribal and industrial mix, the Muslim population works in market trading, tailoring, and stone-related industries. Mosques exist in Rayagada town, but rural Muslim presence is negligible. The community is generally well-integrated with neighboring tribal and OBC communities.

Nabarangapur: With a population of 1,220,946 and 6,753 Muslims (0.55%), Nabarangapur is a tribal district with small urban clusters. Muslims here are traders, auto-mechanics, and small-scale cloth sellers. Infrastructure includes a handful of religious sites and low-cost educational institutions, mostly in the district HQ.

Koraput: Koraput district has 1,379,647 residents, including 8,850 Muslims (0.64%). This hilly, tribal region supports a moderate Muslim population in towns like Jeypore. Occupations range from food vending and carpentry to construction. Religious and educational facilities exist but are modest. Cultural cohabitation is stable and cordial.

Malkangiri: Malkangiri has 613,192 people and just 1,871 Muslims (0.31%). Bordering Andhra Pradesh, the district is remote and tribal-dominated. The few Muslim families here engage in small transport services and grocery trade. Infrastructure is minimal, but peaceful coexistence continues despite the district’s isolation and underdevelopment.

Subarnapur: Subarnapur (Sonepur) has a total population of 610,183 and 1,566 Muslims (0.26%). Located in western Odisha, the community is extremely small, concentrated in towns like Sonepur. They engage in retail, tailoring, and minor trading. Religious institutions are limited to one or two mosques, and cultural life is modest.

Muslim Population by District in Odisha (2011 Census)

Excerpt: Jharkhand, located in eastern India, is rich in mineral resources and cultural diversity. The state’s population is predominantly Hindu, but it also hosts a significant Muslim minority, especially in northern and northeastern districts. These communities contribute to Jharkhand’s unique cultural fabric, with visible religious, linguistic, and socio-economic influences.

According to the 2011 Census, Jharkhand has a population of approximately 32.96 million, of which about 4.89 million are Muslims, making up 14.83% of the total^[6]. The Muslim population is unevenly distributed, with districts like Pakur, Sahibganj, and Godda having higher concentrations.

Hindi is the official language, with Urdu commonly spoken among Muslim communities. The higher Muslim concentrations in Santhal Pargana and coal belt districts are linked to historical settlement, economic migration, and cultural entrenchment.

Top 10 Districts by Muslim Population in Jharkhand

Pakur (35.87%), Sahibganj (34.61%), and Godda (22.02%) lead in Muslim concentration. These districts in the Santhal Pargana region reflect long-standing settlement, with distinct cultural practices, madrasa education, and Islamic festivals adding to local vibrancy.

Districts in Jharkhand with Lowest Muslim % (Below 6%)

Tribal-dominated districts like Khunti (2.47%), Simdega (2.52%), and Pashchimi Singhbhum (2.54%) have minimal Muslim populations. These areas maintain traditional tribal customs, with limited Muslim influence or institutional presence.

Total Muslim vs Non-Muslim Population in Jharkhand (2011 Census)

Muslims form 14.83% of Jharkhand’s population, a significant minority. The remaining 85% includes Hindus, Christians, and indigenous Sarna followers. Religious distribution remains relatively stable, though urban centers show shifting patterns.

Muslim vs Hindu Population in Jharkhand (2001 & 2011 Census)

The Muslim population in Jharkhand grew by 27.3% from 2001 to 2011, outpacing Hindu population growth (12.5%). Migration to coal and industrial belts, along with natural growth, contributed to this trend.

Districts with Highest Muslim Density per 100,000 People in Jharkhand

Pakur and Sahibganj show the highest Muslim density per 100,000 people, followed by Giridih and Godda. These districts are key to understanding Muslim cultural presence and demographic weight in Jharkhand.

Small Population Districts with Low Muslim Percentage

Districts like Khunti, Simdega, and Pashchimi Singhbhum are sparsely Muslim, owing to strong tribal identities and relative isolation. These areas continue to prioritize traditional tribal systems and languages.

Garhwa: Garhwa has 194,680 Muslims, comprising 14.72% of its 1.32 million residents. It is a developing district where Muslims are mostly engaged in agriculture, trading, and small industries. Local mosques and community centers indicate a moderate cultural presence.

Chatra: With a total population of 1.04 million, Chatra has 116,710 Muslims (11.19%). The Muslim population is distributed across villages and small towns, primarily involved in trade and transport. The district has moderate educational infrastructure supporting both communities.

Koderma: Koderma’s 107,018 Muslims form 14.94% of its 716,259 population. Located in a mica-rich belt, Muslims here are traditionally engaged in mining, trade, and services. Urban growth has brought diversification in economic roles.

Giridih: Giridih, a coal belt district, has 508,586 Muslims (20.80%) among its 2.44 million residents. The community is active in mining-related businesses, retail, and schooling initiatives. Urbanization is fueling growth in Muslim entrepreneurship.

Deoghar: A religious town known for Baidyanath Dham, Deoghar also hosts 302,626 Muslims (20.28%). Muslims are mainly involved in small-scale trade, religious services, and local commerce. Coexistence and shared spaces define the social landscape.

Godda: Godda has 289,182 Muslims—22.02% of its 1.31 million population. With a largely rural Muslim population, agricultural labor and livestock rearing are key occupations. Eid and Muharram are major communal events.

Sahibganj: Sahibganj, on the Ganga banks, has 398,243 Muslims (34.61%). Trade via waterways and historical links to Bengal have shaped its Muslim demographics. The district features several madrasas and Islamic schools.

Pakur: Pakur has the highest Muslim concentration—322,963 people, or 35.87% of its 900,422 population. The district is known for black stone mining, where Muslims are major stakeholders. Cultural identity is prominently visible here.

Dhanbad: Dhanbad, the coal capital, has 431,762 Muslims (16.08%). Many work in the mining sector, services, or run small businesses. The urban setting fosters educational opportunities and communal engagement.

Bokaro: Bokaro’s 241,451 Muslims (11.71%) live mainly in industrial townships. With better literacy rates, many are employed in public and private sectors. Mosques and schools support a cohesive community life.

Lohardaga: Lohardaga has a 20.57% Muslim share, totaling 95,012 out of 461,790. A tribal-dominated area, Muslims coexist in rural settlements and engage in trade, transport, and household industry.

Purbi Singhbhum: Home to 203,999 Muslims (8.89%), this industrial district features Jamshedpur. Muslims here benefit from urban infrastructure and diversified employment in steel plants, shops, and services.

Palamu: Palamu has 238,295 Muslims, making up 12.28% of its 1.94 million population. Agriculture and local businesses are mainstay occupations. The district is marked by communal coexistence and periodic tensions.

Latehar: Latehar’s Muslim population is 69,808 (9.60%) out of 726,978. Known for forests and tribal settlements, Muslims here live in scattered villages and participate in local economies through small trades.

Hazaribagh: Hazaribagh has 281,247 Muslims (16.21%) among 1.73 million residents. The community benefits from education and access to coal employment. Urban areas have growing Muslim neighborhoods and facilities.

Ramgarh: Ramgarh’s 129,037 Muslims make up 13.59% of its 949,443 residents. The district’s cement and coal industries employ a large section of the Muslim workforce. Mosques and market centers dot the landscape.

Dumka: Dumka has 106,865 Muslims (8.09%) of a 1.32 million population. A mix of tribal and Muslim residents share rural landscapes. Education and health services are improving in the region.

Jamtara: Jamtara houses 164,406 Muslims (20.78%). Its small population size gives Muslims a significant demographic presence. They are active in trade, tailoring, and farming, with growing urban footprints.

Ranchi: Jharkhand’s capital has 410,759 Muslims (14.09%). They are integrated into all sectors—government jobs, academia, retail, and IT. Diverse cultural expressions are seen in Ranchi’s festivals and eateries.

Khunti: Only 13,122 Muslims live in Khunti (2.47%), a tribal region. Their presence is low due to the district’s isolated and traditional fabric. Small-scale trade and labor support their livelihood.

Gumla: Gumla’s 51,429 Muslims form 5.02% of the 1.03 million population. Most live in rural belts, practicing small agriculture and trade. Interactions with tribal communities are common and peaceful.

Simdega: With 15,103 Muslims (2.52%), Simdega sees minimal Islamic influence. The community is involved in minor trade and inter-district transport. Education levels remain below the state average.

Pashchimi Singhbhum: Only 38,103 Muslims reside here (2.54% of 1.5 million). Tribal customs dominate the district’s identity. Muslim residents are largely engaged in timber trade and domestic crafts.

Saraikela‑Kharsawan: This district has 63,588 Muslims (5.97%). Industrial areas and rural blocks show mixed settlement. Muslims here are engaged in commerce, welding shops, and small-scale transport services.

Muslim Population by District in Jharkhand (2011 Census)