Sindhi Population in India: Census Data and 2025 Estimates
According to available data, the Indian Sindhi population as of 2025 is estimated to be around 3 million people, with most residing in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, primarily concentrated in cities like Mumbai and Ulhasnagar.
As per the 2011 Census of India, the distribution of Sindhi speakers across various Indian states was as follows:
| State | Population | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Gujarat | 1,184,000 | 42.7% |
| Maharashtra | 724,000 | 26.1% |
| Rajasthan | 387,000 | 13.9% |
| Madhya Pradesh | 245,000 | 8.8% |
| Chhattisgarh | 93,000 | 3.4% |
| Delhi | 31,000 | 1.1% |
| Uttar Pradesh | 29,000 | 1.0% |
| Assam | 20,000 | 0.7% |
| Karnataka | 17,000 | 0.6% |
| Andhra Pradesh | 11,000 | 0.4% |
It is important to note that these figures are based on the 2011 Census, and the actual Sindhi in India today may be higher due to natural population growth and migration patterns.
Sindhis in India
The Sindhi population in India has a remarkable history of resilience and success. Originally from Sindh (now in Pakistan), they migrated to India during the Partition of 1947, leaving behind their homes and livelihoods. This displacement caused immense hardships, but Sindhis quickly adapted, relying on their entrepreneurial skills to rebuild their lives.
With no designated state of their own, Sindhis settled across India in cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Ulhasnagar, Jaipur, and Delhi. Many initially lived in refugee camps before establishing themselves in trade and business. Today, with an estimated population of 3 million, Sindhis play a vital role in India’s economy and professional sectors.
Business Success of Indian Sindh People
Sindhis are globally recognized for their business acumen, and in India, they have played a significant role in shaping the country’s economy. With limited resources post-Partition, Sindhis focused on entrepreneurship, excelling in industries such as retail, textiles, real estate, and finance. Some of the most successful Sindhis entrepreneurs include:
- Hinduja Group: Founded by Parmanand Hinduja, this multinational conglomerate operates in banking, energy, and automotive industries.
- Hiranandani Group: Niranjan Hiranandani, a prominent real estate developer, transformed Mumbai’s skyline.
- D-Mart (Avenue Supermarts): Radhakishan Damani, a Sindhis entrepreneur, built one of India’s most successful retail chains.
- IndusInd Bank: A major private bank founded by the Hinduja Group to cater to the global Sindhi community.
Cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Ulhasnagar are major hubs for Sindhi businesses, and their influence extends globally to countries like Hong Kong, Dubai, and London.
Sindhis in Bollywood
Though the Sindhi population in India is mostly known for business, they have also made their mark in the Indian film industry. Some famous Bollywood personalities of Sindhi origin include:
- Ranveer Singh: A leading Bollywood star known for Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, and Gully Boy.
- Kiara Advani: A rising actress famous for Kabir Singh and Shershaah.
- Sadhana Shivdasani: A legendary actress of the 1960s known for her iconic performances.
- Nana Patekar: A versatile actor with a strong presence in Indian cinema.
The Sindhi population in India has proven its resilience by excelling in business, films, and other sectors. From overcoming the struggles of migration to establishing themselves as leading entrepreneurs and film stars, Sindhis continue to thrive while preserving their rich cultural heritage.
The Sindhi population in India has shown remarkable resilience, particularly in business and the film industry. India’s secular governance has allowed Sindhis to flourish, ensuring equal opportunities in various fields. Today, they are a vital part of India’s economic and cultural landscape, contributing significantly to the nation’s progress.
However, despite their achievements, many Sindhis remain landless, as they lost their ancestral homes during the Partition. Even today, Scheduled Caste Sindhis in India continue to face socio-economic challenges. Nevertheless, they have preserved their rich heritage, language, and the Sindhi script, keeping their cultural identity alive across generations.
While most Sindhi population in India live peacefully, some still face discrimination leading to slow migration. Religious tensions and political biases sometimes create an environment where minorities feel targeted. On the other hand, Sindhi Hindus in Pakistan face even greater hardships. As Pakistan is an Islamic republic, they often struggle with restrictions on religious freedom and expression.
Many fear persecution for their differing beliefs, making migration their only viable option for security and better opportunities. Despite these struggles, the Sindhi population in India continues to thrive, upholding their traditions while contributing to India’s diverse and multicultural society.