Decontextualise to Decolonise: Indian Tambura

Farida Eltayeb from the Interior Architecture course at the University of Brighton writes about an Indian Tambura as part of the Decontextualise to Decolonise project.

Echoes of Colour

This project is about making a fun place to play music with an Indian instrument called the tambura. Instead of playing it like usual, the tamburas are laid flat so everyone can use them like drums. This way, anyone can join in and make music together!

The space is inspired by India’s colourful culture, especially the Holi festival. Colourful powder falls from the ceiling, making the air look like bright clouds. There are also stands that offer different coloured powders for people to use, just like they use the tamburas.

Outside the music area, there are all the things you’d find in a theatre. There’s a lobby, a gift shop, restrooms, and places to get food and drinks. There are two ways to get in. One goes straight to the music area, and the other goes through the lobby, so you can explore in different ways.

This project also reflects on decolonisation. It questions how museum objects, like the tambura, can be freed from display cases. Instead of silent objects, they are part of a happy and interactive place for everyone to enjoy!