Islam in Assam facts for kids

Islam is a major religion, and it's the second largest and fastest growing one in Assam, a state in India. It comes after Hinduism in terms of the number of people who follow it. Assam is home to many Indian Muslim people.

According to a count done in 2011, about 34% of the people in Assam were Muslim. More recent estimates from 2020 suggest that this number might have grown to between 35% and 38%. In Assam, 11 out of its 32 districts now have a majority of Muslim residents.

Islam's Presence in Assam

Islam has been present in Assam for a long time, with its history tied to trade, Sufi saints, and different rulers. Over centuries, the religion spread peacefully through the teachings of holy people and also through interactions with various kingdoms.

Early Beginnings

The arrival of Islam in Assam can be traced back to the 13th century. Traders and Sufi saints played a big role in bringing the religion to the region. Sufi saints were spiritual teachers who traveled and shared their beliefs, often building communities around their teachings.

Important Figures

One important figure in the spread of Islam in Assam was Azan Faqir. He was a Sufi saint who lived in the 17th century. He helped many people understand Islam through his songs and teachings, which were often in the local Assamese language. His efforts helped Islam become more widely accepted in the area.

Historical Sites

Assam has several old and important Islamic sites. The Panbari Mosque in Dhubri is one of the oldest mosques in the state. Another significant place is the Powa-Makkah Mosque in Hajo. Even after the Mughals were expelled from the region in 1682, King Sukhrungphaa of the Tungkhungia dynasty continued to show great respect for this mosque. These sites show the long history and importance of Islam in Assam.

Images for kids

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  Panbari Mosque, one of the oldest mosque in Assam located at Dhubri

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  The dargah of Azan Faqir, a Sufi saint who helped spread Islam in the region.

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  Even after the state-sponsored expulsion of Mughals in 1682, King Sukhrungphaa of the Tungkhungia dynasty was said to have continued to pay great attention to the Powa-Makkah Mosque in Hajo.

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  The Jayantipur Bor Masjid

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  Ilias Ali on a journey to propagate family planning among the riverine Muslims of rural Kamrup.