<P> Sufism has a history in India evolving for over 1,000 years . The presence of Sufism has been a leading entity increasing the reaches of Islam throughout South Asia . Following the entrance of Islam in the early 8th century, Sufi mystic traditions became more visible during the 10th and 11th centuries of the Delhi Sultanate . A conglomeration of four chronologically separate dynasties, the early Delhi Sultanate consisted of rulers from Turkic and Afghan lands . This Persian influence flooded South Asia with Islam, Sufi thought, syncretic values, literature, education, and entertainment that has created an enduring impact on the presence of Islam in India today . Sufi preachers, merchants and missionaries also settled in coastal Bengal and Gujarat through maritime voyages and trade . </P> <P> Various leaders of Sufi orders, Tariqa, chartered the first organized activities to introduce localities to Islam through Sufism . Saint figures and mythical stories provided solace and inspiration to Hindu caste communities often in rural villages of India . The Sufi teachings of divine spirituality, cosmic harmony, love, and humanity resonated with the common people and still does so today . The following content will take a thematic approach to discuss a myriad of influences that helped spread Sufism and a mystical understanding of Islam, making India a contemporary epicenter for Sufi culture today . </P> <P> Muslims entered India in 711 under the Arab commander Muhammad bin Qasim, by conquering the regions of Sindh and Multan . This historical achievement connected South Asia to the Muslim empire . Simultaneously, Arab Muslims were welcomed along the Hindustani (India) sea ports for trade and business ventures . The Muslim culture of the caliphate began to permeate through India . </P>

Who was the first sufi saint to have come to india