It is difficult to give a definitive answer as to whether there are more Barelvi or Deobandi Muslims worldwide. The two groups are branches of Sunni Islam with significant followings in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. However, there is no official census or accurate data on the precise number of adherents for each group.
Factors Complicating the Count:
- Regional Variations: The distribution of Barelvi and Deobandi Muslims varies significantly across regions. For instance, Deobandi Muslims are more prevalent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan, while Barelvis hold a larger presence in Punjab.
- Overlap and Ambiguity: Many Muslims identify with both Barelvi and Deobandi traditions, making it challenging to categorize them solely into one group.
- Lack of Standardized Definitions: The terms "Barelvi" and "Deobandi" are not always clearly defined, and there is a spectrum of beliefs and practices within each group.
Therefore, while estimations suggest that Barelvi Muslims are likely more numerous, it is impossible to provide a concrete answer.
