Why is Hinduism primarily a religion in a particular region of a particular people and Buddhism a more universal religion?

Answer 1

Mainly because Hindu's do not really try to convert others. It is actually woven and intertwined with the culture in India. Although the Indian people take it with them if they move somewhere else, there is no real focus to spread the belief to other people. Many Hindus believe that their are many aspects of how to please God, so most Hindu's do not think other religions are "wrong" so to speak. They simply try their best to attain good karma within themselves.

Buddha, when he had the experience of what he called "enlightenment", diligently made an evangelizing effort through much of Asia to share this experience with others. He especially focused on ascetics, whom he felt were making themselves suffer for no good reason. Many Buddhists have followed his example, and a way to practice their faith is to help others attain the enlightenment in an attempt to make themselves more enlightened. Thus they often will freely try to impart their faith and beliefs and in attempt to help others learn what they feel to be true wisdom.