Hinduism in Iran

Early Contacts and Influence

Hinduism’s historical connections with Iran trace back to the early Indo-Iranian period, when both regions were inhabited by peoples speaking Indo-European languages. The ancient Indo-Iranian peoples, who later split into the Vedic-speaking Aryans of India and the Iranian-speaking peoples, shared many religious and cultural traditions. Early references to Vedic religious practices and deities appear in the Avesta, the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, which show linguistic and thematic affinities with Hindu scriptures.

The Rigveda mentions the airya (Aryans), who may have had contact with the Iranian plateau before their divergence into separate cultural and religious paths. The Avesta also contains numerous parallels with the Vedic hymns, such as the figure of Mithra, a prominent god in both Hindu and Zoroastrian traditions. These similarities suggest a shared religious heritage before the distinct development of Zoroastrianism and Hinduism in their respective regions.

Ancient Persia and Hindu Influence

Throughout ancient Iranian history, particularly during the Achaemenid Empire (circa 550–330 BCE), there was substantial interaction between the Iranian and Indian subcontinents. Trade routes such as the Silk Road facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences. Hinduism, though not dominant, likely influenced the religious and philosophical milieu of ancient Iran.

During the reign of Darius the Great (522–486 BCE), Indian merchants were known to have traveled to Persia, and there are accounts of interactions between Indian sages and Persian courts. While Zoroastrianism remained the dominant religion of the Achaemenid Empire, Indian religious practices and ideas were undoubtedly present in Iranian society, particularly through trade and intellectual exchange.

A metal plate depicting an elephant-headed figure, similar to the Hindu deity Ganesha, was discovered in Lorestan Province, Iran, This metal plate has been dated to between 1200 BCE and 1000 BCE.^[9][10]

Medieval and Early Modern Period

Hinduism’s presence in Iran was further solidified during the medieval period through the expansion of trade, particularly after the Islamic conquests of Persia in the 7th century CE. While Islam eventually became the dominant religion in Iran, there were significant Hindu communities in Iran, especially in the regions of Kerman and Yazd, which were part of the trade routes linking India and the Middle East.

The influence of Indian traders and migrants in Iran increased during the Safavid dynasty (1501–1736), when Iran established extensive trade links with India. Indian merchants, soldiers, and artisans migrated to Iran, and small Hindu communities began to establish themselves in cities such as Isfahan and Tehran. These early communities were often involved in commerce, and their religious practices continued to be shaped by the Indian subcontinent’s traditions.

Modern Era

In the modern period, particularly during the Qajar dynasty (1789–1925), and into the Pahlavi era (1925–1979), there were significant migrations of Hindus to Iran. Many of these migrants came as a result of trade and diplomatic ties between Iran and British India, which included the movement of professionals, diplomats, and laborers. During this period, small but established Hindu communities could be found in the major cities of Iran, notably in Tehran, Isfahan, and Kerman.

The British colonial presence in India and the establishment of the British Indian community in Iran played a crucial role in strengthening these connections. Additionally, the presence of Parsi (Zoroastrian) and other South Asian religious groups in Iran contributed to the diversity of religious traditions in the region.

After the Islamic Revolution of 1979, the political and social landscape in Iran changed significantly. The new Islamic government led by Ayatollah Khomeini implemented policies that restricted religious freedoms, and the country’s religious composition shifted further toward Islam. Despite these challenges, small Hindu communities remained in Iran, particularly in areas with historical trade ties to India.