India, Islam in – a term that captures the Islamic presence in India’s diverse cultural, economic, and political landscapes.
Definition and Meaning§
India is home to a significant Muslim population, representing about 14% of its 1.3 billion people. Indian Muslims display a mosaic of economic and political diversity, along with a regional and linguistic variety—including Bengali, Deccani, Gujarati, Hindustani, Mappila, Oriyya, and Punjabi. Predominantly Sunni Muslims follow the Hanafi school of thought, with around 10% adhering to the Twelver Shia tradition, and a smaller segment identifying as Ismaili Shias.
Etymology and Background§
The term “Islam in India” encapsulates the influence and practices of Islamic faith within the Indian subcontinent. It derives from “Islām”, which signifies submission to God, combined with “India,” derived from the River Indies.
Cultural and Historical Context§
Early Presence§
Islam entered India in the early 7th century through trade links and later expanded through scholarly, esoteric, and military influences.
Mughal Era§
The Mughal Dynasty (1526-1857) significantly shaped India’s Islamic architecture, literature, cuisine, and culture.
Colonial Period§
During British rule, Indian Muslims played pivotal roles, with key figures advocating for both colonial and nationalist causes.
Post-Independence§
In the aftermath of 1947, marking India’s partition and independence, Muslim political affiliations differed; a minority supported the Indian National Congress over Pakistan.
Historical Facts and Dates§
- 711 AD: Arrival of Islam with Muhammad bin Qasim’s conquest of Sindh.
- 1398 AD: Timur invades Delhi.
- 1526 AD: Establishment of the Mughal Empire by Babur.
- 1947 AD: Partition of India, creating mainly Hindu India and Muslim-majority Pakistan.
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
Indian Muslims vary regionally but share several cultural congruities with Hindus, such as cuisine styles, attire, and language. The partition-caused divide affirms distinct national identities, yet a shared historical legacy persists.
Related Terms§
- Sunni Islam (سُنِّي, Sunnī): Represents the largest denomination in India.
- Shia Islam (شِيعَة, Shia): Denotes communities interpreting Islam through Ali’s lineage.
- Twelver Shia: The largest Shia sect, believing in the Twelve Imams’ succession.
Synonyms and Antonyms§
- Synonyms: Indian Muslims, South Asian Islam
- Antonyms: Non-Muslims in India
Exciting Facts§
- Sufism flourished in India with influential orders like Chishti, Suhrawardi, and Qadiri spreading messages of spirituality and tolerance.
- Muslim contributions to India’s biodiversity: Cities like Hyderabadi biryani and Mughlai cuisine celebrate culinary richness.
Notable Writers§
“India’s Islamic culture resonates as a symphony of unity in diversity, echoing through the annals of history.” – Salman Ahmad
Further Studies§
Suggested Literature§
- B. Metcalf, “Islamic Revival in British India”
- S. Pollock, “The Languages of Political Islam in India”
- I. H. Qureshi, “The Muslim Community of the Indo-Pakistan Subcontinent”
Other Sources§
- Oxford Islamic Studies Online
- The Muslim World (Journal)
- Encyclopaedia of Islam
Farewell Thought§
“Islam in India is not just a religion; it is a vibrant cultural force that has woven itself into the very fabric of the nation’s history and identity.”
Author: Safiya Khan Published: October 2023
