The Muslim rulers of India were great lovers of art and architecture. They brought with them new artistic designs and new modes of construction to India. The Muslim rulers however had to employ Hindu craftsmen and architects to build their arches, domes, minarets, etc. and as a result a fusion of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture took place leading to a new kind of art called Indo-Muslim art. The intermingling of both the arts was further made possible by the need of the early Muslim rulers to build their palaces, tombs, and mosques out of materials available in India.
The close contact between the two cultures over such a long period brought about changes in the social milieux of both.
Hindu society was influenced by customs prevalent in Muslim society. Under the impact of Islam the position of women in the Hindu society deteriorated. With the establishment of Muslim rule in India seclusion of women (purda system) became important feature of Hindu society. The practice of child marriage also became very common. Hindu women also followed the practice of Jauhar and Sati to safeguard their honour and chastity.
Slavery was a common feature of the Muslim society. Gradually it crept into Hindu society as a result of the contact of Hindus with Muslims.