Over 97% of the population belongs to Hinduism followed by Islam, Sikhism, Jainism and Christianity. Though originally the city had moreMuslims than Hindus, most of them shifted to Pakistan during Partition of India. It was also a major centre of learning for Digambara Jains and was once the seat of Bhattaraka, head of Digambara Jain institutions.
Arya Samaj flourished in the city towards the close of 19th century. The Arya Samaj was established at Hisar in 1889 and Lala Lajpat Rai was a moving force in its establishment. The movement spread very fast and influenced the social and religious life of the district. The important social groups in the district are Jats, Bishnois, Brahmins, Sainis, Banias, Gujjars, Ahirs, Rajputs, Kumhars, Aroras, Chamars and Balmikis. Jat is the largest social group in the city. They are of two types, Deswalis and Bagris. Bishnois have migrated from Rajasthan. There are two sections of Brahmins in the district, i.e., Gaur and Khandelwal. Most of the Aroras are migrant from Pakistan after the partition of the country in 1947.Banias are divided into Aggarwals, Oswals and Maheshwaris. The Aggarwals are said to be the descendants of the inhabitants of Agroha. They hold Agroha in great reverence. Oswals and Maheshwaris trace their origin to the Rajputs of Rajasthan. The Gujjars of Hisar trace their origin to Rajasthan
