Most instruments, though definitely not ugly (just look at the sitar) are more made for function, rather than form. The taus (Persian for peacock) however, seems to have been made with the opposite purpose in mind. Just look at it!
The taus is said to have been invented when the Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and some of his companions, were resting under a tree after singing and playing stringed instruments, with their instruments lying on the ground. All of a sudden, a peacock came up to them, and let out a cry, which made all of the instruments’ strings resonate. The Guru liked the sound so much that he resolved to make an instrument which captured it beautifully, thus leading to the invention of the taus.
However, one should not be unfair to the taus; its voice is just as beautiful as its outward appearance, and is definitely not an instrument which prizes looks more than performance. If you don’t believe us, look at the video below!
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