The culture of the Muslims was for long either an exotic one or a class culture confined to a certain group that basked in the sun-shine of the King`s favour. The monotheism of Islam led to the birth of a similar movement among the Hindus. Certain aspects of `Bhakti` movement were coloured by the iconoclastic character of Islam. Kabir was the most representative figure. Muslim architecture, painting and crafts had a certain originality which enriched the fabric of Indian culture. In the literary field the development of Urdu Language and the birth of historical writings are some of the colossal Muslim contributions to Indian culture. The dress, manners and food especially among the aristocracy in Northern India, underwent a certain reorientation in following the Muslims.
Religion under Delhi Sultanate
Religious scenario during the time of the Delhi Sultanate was an integral part of their culture. During the period of the Sultanate all ancient religious sect in India like the Vedic religion, Buddhism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, Shaivism and different Tantric sects existed in different forms.
Literature under Delhi Sultanate
Literature during the period of Delhi Sultanate was produced not only in Sanskrit and Persian but also in other religious languages. The Sultans of Delhi and the rulers of provincial dynasties provided shelter to various scholars who produced historical, religious literature in other fields of knowledge. Al -beruni was a reputed Persian scholar at the time of Mahmud of Ghazni. The Hindu rulers of Warangal and the Vijayanagara Empire provided encouragement to Sanskrit literature. The one novelty of this period in literary field was the beginning of literature in different Indian regional languages.
Art and Architecture under Delhi Sultanate
Art and architecture made progress during the period the Delhi Sultanate. The architecture of the period of Delhi Sultanate can be categorised into the imperial style of architecture, the provincial style of architecture and the Hindu architecture. As a whole this period witnessed the growth of that style of architecture which was called the Indo - Islamic style of architecture.
Thus, the culture under the dominion of the Delhi Sultanate was wide and varied and several factors which were responsible to shape the culture of that period.
