The Taus ( Mayuri Veena) Instrument of the Peacock, Musical Wonders of India

, darbarfestival, The taus, meaning peacock, is a rare Indian instrument said to have been invented by Sikh warriorsaints of the 17th century. Listen to a recording of it here. Join our newsletter at for the finest in Indian classical music and dance, and watch full length exclusive concerts in pristine HD on the Darbar Player: Learn more about the music: The taus, or mayuri veena, is defined by shape as well as sound. The terms translate from Farsi and Sanskrit to peacock, the national bird of India. A curious veena family hybrid, it combines a sitars moveable frets with feathers and ornate paintwork. It may seem to be as much sculpture as instrument, but the sound is unique. Played with a sarangilike bow, it produces a clear, unadorned tone, impressively similar to the cry of the peacock. Its inventor is reputed to have been either Guru br, br,