Explore the introduction and spread of Islam in medieval India, including its establishment in Sindh and Punjab from the eighth to tenth centuries. Discover how Arab travelers and Sufi saints influenced Indian culture, and learn about Al-Biruni's writings that acquainted West Asia with Hindu ideas and beliefs. Delve into the debate on the influence of Buddhist and Vedantic ideas on Islamic philosophy, and how early Sufis integrated Hindu rituals and yogic practices while maintaining their Islamic ideological structure.

Introduction and spread of Islam in medieval India.

• Islam was established in Sindh from the eighth century and in the Punjab from the tenth century.


• Arab travelers settled in Kerala between the eighth and tenth centuries, and Sufi saints traveled extensively across India.


• Al-Biruni's book Kitab-ul-Hind and other writings familiarized West Asia with Hindu ideas and beliefs.


• There was considerable debate among scholars about the influence of Buddhist and Vedantic ideas on Islamic thinking.


• Remnants of Buddhist monasteries and stupas in Afghanistan and Central Asia indicate the extent of Buddhist influence.


• Greek and Indian ideas contributed to the development of Islamic philosophy and the rise of the Sufi movement in India.


• Early Sufis assimilated various Hindu rituals and yogic practices into their system while maintaining an Islamic ideological structure.