This article highlights ten surprising facts about some of the world’s most populous countries. China has more basketball players than any other country in the world, while India’s Bollywood film industry produces over 1,000 movies each year for more than 100 million regular viewers. The United States has the highest obesity rates among populous countries, while Indonesia is the largest island country with a population of over 270 million. Pakistan has over 14 of the world’s highest peaks, while Brazil is renowned for its high biodiversity, with over 55,000 different species of plants. Nigeria has the largest population in Africa, and Japan is home to one of the oldest populations globally, with an average life expectancy of 84 years.
1. China: A nation of basketball lovers
While basketball is undoubtedly more popular in the US, China has more basketball players than any other country in the world, with over 300 million people enjoying the sport. This number exceeds the population of the United States. Yao Ming, who played for the Houston Rockets, is the most famous Chinese basketball player.
2. India: Home to the largest film industry
Bollywood, the Indian film industry in Mumbai, is the largest in the world, producing over 1,000 movies each year. It has been reported that India has more than 100 million people who watch Bollywood movies on a regular basis.
3. United States: Obesity capital of the world
The United States unfortunately leads in obesity rates among the world’s populous countries. More than 36% of American adults are obese, which has concerning implications for the health of citizens and the economy.
4. Indonesia: The world’s biggest island country
With a total area of over 1.9 million square kilometers, Indonesia is the world’s biggest island country. It is also the fourth most populous country in the world, with over 270 million inhabitants.
5. Pakistan: Home to 14 of the world’s highest peaks
Pakistan is home to K2, the second highest peak in the world. Additionally, the country has 13 other peaks that each reach over 8,000 meters in height, making it an attractive destination for mountaineers.
6. Brazil: The most biodiverse country in the world
Brazil is an immensely biodiverse country, with over 55,000 different species of plants, over 1,700 species of birds, and several other unique ecosystems, such as the Amazon rainforest, the Pantanal wetlands, and the Cerrado savannah.
7. Nigeria: Africa’s most populous country
Nigeria has the largest population on the African continent, with over 200 million people living there. The country is known for its cultural diversity, with over 500 different ethnic groups and 500 different languages spoken.
8. Bangladesh: The world’s largest delta
The Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta in Bangladesh is the largest delta in the world, with a total area of over 105,000 square kilometers. This region is one of the most densely populated regions on the planet, with over 150 million people living there.
9. Russia: The largest country in the world
Russia is the largest country in the world by landmass, with a total area of over 17 million square kilometers. It is so vast that it spans 11 different time zones.
10. Japan: The oldest population in the world
Japan is home to one of the oldest populations in the world. The average life expectancy in Japan is over 84 years, which is the highest in the world. It is predicted that by 2040, 40% of Japan’s population will be over 65 years old.
In conclusion, while we may think we know everything about the world’s most populous countries, these surprising facts remind us that there is always more to learn about the diverse people and cultures that make up our world.