Main Religion in Odisha (Orissa): Hinduism

Hinduism is the predominant religion in Odisha (formerly Orissa), with over 93% of the population identifying as Hindu (2011 Census).

Distinctive Odia Hinduism

• Jagannath culture: Puri's Jagannath Temple — one of Char Dham pilgrimage sites — centers spiritual life
• Rath Yatra: World-famous chariot festival draws millions annually
• Temple architecture: Kalinga style (Lingaraj, Konark Sun Temple, Mukteswar)
• Bhakti tradition: 15th–16th century poet-saints (Jayadeva, Chaitanya influence)

Minorities

• Christianity: ~2.8% (concentrated in tribal districts: Kandhamal, Gajapati)
• Islam: ~2.2%
• Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism: small communities
• Tribal faiths (Sarna, etc.): often census-counted as Hindu but distinct

Odisha's Hinduism isn't monolithic — it's a living, regionally specific tradition with tribal roots and classical sophistication.