In the subcontinent Sufi's and Saints were the ones who introduced Islam. It was purely through their efforts that Islam evolved its base in India and from that the concept of spiritualism arose. Sufi's and Saints apart from preaching their religion in a peaceful manner also worked to forge good relations between the different nations of Indian Subcontinent. They not only guided their Muslim brethren in molding their lives according to the basic teachings of Islam but also showed them the ways to make good and brotherly relations with the followers of other religions.

The major Silsilah (Orders) in the Subcontinent:
1. The Shadhiliyya order
2. The Chishti order
3. The Shattariya order
4. The Suhrawardi order
5. The Qadiri order
6. The Naqshbandi order

Conclusion:
Saints introduced mystical form of Islam which was very moderate and projected the peace-loving nature of this religion. Hindus and Hinduism were deeply influenced by the Sufi saints of these orders. Their teachings played integral role in the social, economical and philosophical development of the Muslims. Islam spread swiftly in the Indian subcontinent and across Asia due to their selfless teachings. It can safely be remarked that it was Sufi Muslim saints, not conquerors, who spread Islam in this part of the world.

Source: Shared by a senior member Zuhaib Ahmed.