Islam first came to India with the Arab, Persian and north African sea traders, and the camel caravans from Turkey and Central Asia, and eventually with the Arab conquest of the Sindh in the 8th century. Though it made little headway at the time, the Koran was found to provide scholarly reading for those so inclined. Rajasthan's Hindu rulers provided permission for the construction of mosques within their territories, even offering grants and protection to those who prayed at the dargahs and masjids.

Interaction between the Muslim and Hindu faiths also resulted in the birth of a new mystic movement called sufism. The Sufis called for religious tolerance, and created a move-ment that proved that direct vision of divine things is possible through the residing deity's grace, and cosmic vibrations.

Though there are mosques in most settlements, a few are important.

Dargah Sharif, Ajmer :

A Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chisht: was a descendent of Prophet Mohammed, and was offered this land during the reign of Prithvira; Chauhan. He built himself a formidable following, and not only among Muslims. It is said that when he was 114 years old, the saint locked himself into a room to pray. Six days later, when disciples broke open the door, they found his mortal remains. It is for this reason that the annual urs is celebrated here for a period of six days.

At the time of this feast, consecrated food is cooked in huge cauldrons, and served by those who serve at the shrine, while standing within it. It is believed that the huge cauldrons were a gift from Emperor Akhar who came to pray at the shrine and pray for the boon of heirs, and was blessed with sons. Ever since, the Mughals have always come to pray at Ajmer. Qawalis are sung at the shrine in a mes- meric tempo, and people offer chadars at the grave of the venerated saint.

Tarkin ki Dargah, Nagaur :

A discipline of Chishti too gained himself a following, and his tomb in Nasaur has become associated with miracle cures among people of all faiths.