Hindi, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, is not only prevalent in India but also has a significant presence in several countries across the globe. As of 2025, it is estimated that over 600 million people speak Hindi, making it the third most spoken language worldwide. The spread of Hindi can be attributed to historical migration patterns, cultural exchanges, and the global influence of Indian cinema and media. This article explores seven countries where Hindi is widely spoken outside of India, highlighting the linguistic and cultural significance of the language in these regions.
The United States is home to one of the largest Indian diasporas, with Hindi being a prominent language among the community. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 800,000 people reported speaking Hindi at home in 2020. The growth of the Indian population in the U.S. has been fueled by immigration, particularly since the 1960s, when changes in immigration laws allowed for a greater influx of skilled workers. The presence of Hindi-speaking communities is particularly notable in states like California, New York, and New Jersey, where cultural organizations and festivals celebrate Hindi language and Indian heritage.
In the United Kingdom, Hindi is also widely spoken, particularly in urban areas with significant South Asian populations. The 2011 Census indicated that over 400,000 people in England and Wales spoke Hindi. The British Indian community has roots that date back to the colonial era, and today, Hindi is taught in schools and universities, further promoting its use. Cultural events, such as Diwali celebrations and Bollywood film screenings, contribute to the language’s visibility and relevance in British society.
Fiji, a small island nation in the South Pacific, has a unique relationship with Hindi, known locally as Fijian Hindi or Fiji Hindi. This variant of Hindi developed during the indentured labor system in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Indian laborers were brought to work on sugar plantations. Today, it is spoken by approximately 380,000 people, making it one of the official languages of Fiji. The language is an integral part of Fijian identity, and efforts have been made to preserve and promote it through education and media.
In Mauritius, Hindi is another significant language, spoken by around 40% of the population. The Indian community in Mauritius has a long history, with many descendants of indentured laborers who arrived in the 19th century. Hindi is taught in schools and is used in various cultural expressions, including music and dance. The Mauritian government recognizes the importance of Hindi in fostering cultural ties with India, and initiatives have been launched to promote the language in educational institutions.
Trinidad and Tobago also has a notable Hindi-speaking population, primarily among the Indo-Trinidadian community. Hindi was brought to the islands by Indian indentured laborers in the 19th century, and today, it is spoken by approximately 5% of the population. The language is often used in religious and cultural contexts, particularly during festivals such as Diwali. Efforts to preserve Hindi include language classes and cultural events that celebrate Indian heritage.
In South Africa, Hindi is spoken by a significant portion of the Indian community, which has its roots in the late 19th century when Indian laborers were brought to work in the sugarcane fields. Today, Hindi is spoken by around 1.2% of the population, primarily in urban areas like Durban, which has one of the largest Indian communities outside India. The language is used in cultural and religious practices, and organizations promote its teaching and use among younger generations.
Finally, Canada has seen a growing number of Hindi speakers, particularly in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. The 2021 Census reported that over 300,000 people in Canada spoke Hindi at home. The increase in the Hindi-speaking population is linked to immigration from India and other countries with Indian diasporas. Cultural organizations and community events play a vital role in maintaining the language and promoting its use among younger generations.
The global spread of Hindi reflects broader trends of migration, cultural exchange, and globalization. As Hindi continues to gain prominence outside India, its role in fostering cultural connections and community identity remains significant. The presence of Hindi in these seven countries underscores the importance of language as a vehicle for cultural heritage and social cohesion among Indian communities worldwide.
