Islamic practices have altered in INDIA due to assimilation with pluralistic Indian cultures and traditions. Due to integration of two great traditions of Hindusim and Islam there has been exchange of cultures, norms and rituals. Also, secular constitution and uniform legal system has also caused changes in Islam.

Distinct Features of Islam as Practiced in India:

1. Syncretism and Diversity: Islam in India reflects a rich syncretic tradition, blending elements of Sufism, local cultural practices. This diversity is evident in the variety of Islamic sects, schools of thought, and rituals practiced.
2. Sufi Influence: Sufism has played a significant role in Indian Islam, emphasizing spiritualism, tolerance, and inclusivity. Sufi saints have attracted large followings and have contributed to the spread of Islam through peaceful and harmonious means.
3. Cultural Integration: Islam in India has integrated with the country’s diverse cultural fabric. This is evident in architecture (Indo-Islamic styles), cuisine (Mughlai and other regional cuisines), and music (Qawwali and Sufi music).
4. Caste based structures:  there has been found caste like distinctions and discriminations in Indian Muslim community making it unique feature of Indian Islam. There has been demand from within of community to recognise the caste.
5. Madrasa Tradition: India has a strong tradition of Islamic education with madrasas serving as centres of religious learning. These institutions provide religious and secular education to Muslim students. However, in India madrasas also controlled by secular state authority. At the same time they are not only religiously protected but enjoys constitutional protection too.
6. Language Diversity: Urdu and Arabic are significant languages in Islamic practice, with Urdu being widely spoken and having a rich literary tradition. Indian Muslims speaks various languages based on their regional languages, not limited to Urdu and Arabic. North Indian Muslim may be speaking Hindi and a Muslim in Kerala might be speaking Malayalam.
7. Personal Laws: India allows its Muslim citizens to follow Islamic personal laws in matters of marriage, divorce, and inheritance. This has led to differences in family law for Muslims compared to other communities in India.   Similarly, there has been legaln changes too for example recent ban on triplem talaq.
8. Inter religious marriage is not practiced in typical Islam but in India such marriage is legal.

Changes Over Time

1. Modernization: With India’s modernization and urbanization, there has been a shift in lifestyle and values among some Muslims. Many have embraced education, careers, and contemporary lifestyles while maintaining their faith.
2. Political Movements: The Indian Muslim community has been influenced by various political movements and leaders advocating for their rights and representation. This has led to greater political awareness and activism.
3. Globalization: Increased exposure to global trends and ideas has influenced the practice of Islam in India, leading to greater diversity and sometimes tension between traditional and modern interpretations.
4. Secularism: India’s commitment to secularism has influenced the public role of religion, including Islam. While personal faith remains strong, there is a clear distinction between religious and secular domains.
5. Interfaith Relations: Interactions with people of other faiths in India have led to greater religious tolerance and dialogue. Many Muslims actively engage in interfaith initiatives and promote harmony.

Islam in India is characterized by its syncretic and diverse nature, with distinct features rooted in its historical and cultural context. Over time, it has evolved in response to modernization, political movements, globalization, and the principles of secularism and interfaith relations that define India’s pluralistic society.