8 in 10 urban Indians believe in existence of God, says Ipsos survey

According to a recent global advisor survey titled “Global Religion 2023 – Religious Beliefs Around the World” conducted by Ipsos across 26 countries, it was found that a significant majority of urban Indians (80%) express comfort in the presence of individuals belonging to different faiths. This sentiment is echoed by 76% of global citizens across the surveyed countries.

Religion holds significant importance in the daily lives of urban Indians, as revealed by a survey conducted among them. A substantial majority, comprising at least 86% of urban Indians, believe that religious practices are a crucial aspect of fostering morality among citizens. Furthermore, advocating the benefits of having a religious faith, 81% of urban Indians opined that individuals with religious beliefs tend to be happier, while 79% expressed the belief that people with religious faith are better citizens. Additionally, a significant proportion of urban Indians, standing at 86%, stated that their religious affiliation defines their identity.

Religious Beliefs

The results of the survey are especially intriguing for India, where a significant majority of urban Indians, comprising at least 81%, expressed their belief in the existence of God or a higher power. Additionally, among urban Indians from diverse religious backgrounds, 70% stated their belief in God as described in their respective holy scriptures. Comparatively, among global citizens, 61% shared the belief in the existence of God or a higher power.

Exploring further into different beliefs, opinions varied regarding the existence of Heaven, with 54% of urban Indians expressing belief in its existence. Comparatively, 79% of Peruvians and Brazilians claimed to believe in the existence of Heaven. When it comes to the belief in Supernatural Spirits such as angels, demons, fairies, and ghosts, 43% of urban Indians held this belief. Additionally, 47% of urban Indians believed in the existence of Hell, and 41% believed in the existence of the Devil.

Religion is viewed as a solution to life’s challenges, with 8 in 10 urban Indians (83%) believing that it helps them overcome crisis, gives meaning to their lives (83%), and brings happiness into their lives (83%).

Interestingly, there is some social stigma towards atheists, as at least 73% of urban Indians stated that they would lose respect for those who do not have a religious faith.

Religious practice by country

At least 74% of urban Indians stated that they pray outside a place of worship, such as at home, at least once or more than once a month. Similarly, 44% of global citizens claimed to engage in prayer outside a formal place of worship.

When it comes to visiting a place of worship, 71% of urban Indians stated that they visit a religious shrine at least once or more than once a month. In contrast, only 28% of global citizens reported visiting a place of worship in the past month.

Amit Adarkar, CEO of Ipsos India, summarised the survey findings by highlighting India’s success in showcasing peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths. He emphasised how being guided by the positive teachings of their respective holy scriptures has allowed individuals to navigate through life with ease, leading to increased happiness. Adarkar described India as a country characterised by religious diversity and pluralism, where beliefs in the existence of God or a higher power play a significant role in people’s lives.