Religion has played an important part in the lives of the Biharies from the earliest times. But religion in Bihar has never been static; various movements have developed with new ideas and in response to evolving socio-economic situations.

Almost all major religions of the world are professed here. Ancient Bihar (Magadh) was the cradle of Buddhism for over 500 years. It was here that Lord Mahavira was born, the founder of Jainism. Medival Bihar saw the rise of Islam and Sikhism. Whereas Modern Bihar under the Britishers saw Christanity take its root on this land. However, Hinduism still has the biggest following. Jainism has also some followings today.

The landscape of Bihar's cities, towns and villages alike are sprewn with Hindu and Sikh Temples, Mosques and Churches. Christanity has gained more acceptance among the tribals of South Bihar than in other parts. The Sikhs resides mostly in the urban areas as they are mostly engaged in the services sector. Around 80% of the population are Hindus, another 14% are Muslims and the rest 6% follow other religious faith.

Hinduism: The word "Hindu" from which Hinduism has been coined did not have any religious connotation, but mererly denoted the people in geographical area - around the river Indus. While Hinduism has often been described as a way of life, allowing plenty of flexibility in forms of worship and gods, the fundamental goal of Hindus is to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of existence. Until the attainment of moksha, human beings are subject to rebirth. The Hindu view of life does not preclude worldly pleasure: kama (pleasure, including sexual pleasure) and artha (prosperity) are recognised as ends in life, though they are to be subordinated to the higher end of dharma (righteousness).

Hindus from time immerorial have lived in peaceful co-existence with the new ideas and philosophies. Be it Jainism, Buddhism, Islam, Sikhism or Christanity.  As time passed it absorbed the teachings of Buddha, Mahavira and even Guru Nanak into its lap. The same are now reverred to Hindus as they are to their followers. This absorption of ideas went on for a long time, however it was during the medival period that the Hindus closed their eyes to the outer world. This led to their stagnation and thus their rich cultural heritage was overrun by Islam. It was for Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Swami Vivekanand in the late 18th century that Hinduism has found its lost vigour.

On the brink of the next century, infact a new millenium Hinduism is fast adopting to the changes brought about by the Technological and Scientific Advancement. Where Technology has cut distance among cultures of the world, the fast pace of life specially in the urban areas have left little time for most of people to adhere to their daily and regular religious offerings.