Taus (Mayuri Veena)

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The taus, also known as the mayuri veena, is a unique bowed string instrument originating from North India. It features a peacock-shaped resonator (mayuri) and is named “taus,” which means “peacock” in Persian. The taus is a form of the veena that has been used extensively in traditional Sikh and classical Indian music. The instrument is played using a bow, with the neck supported while bowing the strings, producing a distinctively rich and resonant sound.

Historical Context

The origins of the taus can be traced back to references in ancient texts. The mayuri veena is mentioned in Malavikagnimitra, a work by the renowned Sanskrit poet Kalidasa, dating from the 4th to 5th centuries CE. The instrument’s association with Sikh culture is particularly significant. It is believed that the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, played a role in adopting and promoting the taus for Sikh devotional music. According to tradition, the idea for the instrument came from an experience in which Guru Hargobind heard stringed instruments resonate to the sound of a peacock crying, inspiring the creation of an instrument that could mimic that ethereal sound.

Construction and Design

The taus has a striking appearance, with a body shaped like a peacock, which gives the instrument its name. The instrument is typically crafted from wood and played with a bow made of horsehair. It has four main strings that are played over metal frets, with only one string being bowed directly. The sympathetic strings located between the frets and neck add to the instrument’s characteristic sound, providing a natural resonance similar to that of the sitar. These sympathetic strings are tuned according to the raag being played, enhancing the instrument’s expressive capability.

Similar Instruments

The taus is closely related to other Indian string instruments, such as the dilruba and esraj. The dilruba, developed by the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, is considered a compact version of the taus, making it more portable for use by the Sikh army. The esraj is a more modern variant of the dilruba, retaining similar features but designed for easier handling.

Cultural Significance and Use

The taus plays a prominent role in the traditional practice of Sikh kirtan (devotional music), and its unique sound is deeply intertwined with Sikh spirituality. Well-known taus players include Bhai Avtar Singh, who is celebrated for his contributions to preserving the traditional style of kirtan. The instrument’s rich and soulful tones make it ideal for devotional and classical music, evoking the serene and spiritual qualities often associated with Sikh worship.

Playing Technique

The taus is played while seated, with the neck resting on the musician’s shoulder and the body balanced on the ground. The bowing technique requires skill, as the main melody string is bowed while the other strings resonate sympathetically. The tuning of the taus is adjusted to match the specific raag being played, allowing the musician to evoke various emotions and tonal colors.

FAQ

What is the taus?

The taus is a bowed string instrument from North India, characterized by its peacock-shaped body and used extensively in Sikh devotional and classical music.

Who invented the taus?

The taus was conceived by the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, inspired by the sound of peacock cries resonating with traditional string instruments.

What is the difference between a taus and a dilruba?

The dilruba is a compact version of the taus, created by the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, to make it easier for the Sikh army to carry while on horseback.

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