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Religions

Religions in Tamil NaduThe history and culture of Tamilnadu goes back to thousands years back. For centuries, people of various religions have been residing in the state. The main religions in Tamilnadu are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Jainism. Hinduism, along with its various sects, is the oldest religion in the state. Hindus are followers of number of sectarian monastic institutions (called mathas). The most important Math of the state is the Shankara Math at Kumbakonam. The Hindus number most and are scattered in almost all parts of the state. In Tamilnadu, there is an established caste system, which is more pronounced than many other parts of the country. Like most parts of India, the Brahmin community in Tamilnadu is very pious.

Besides Hinduism, other important religions that are practiced in the state are Christianity, Islam and Jainism. The history of Christianity and Islam is also very old in Tamil Nadu. The largest concentration of Christians is in Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari districts of the state. The followers of Jain religion are confined to North and South Arcot and Chennai city.