Q1: Which rule is applicable to buying a sitar and learning how to play on it?
A: Musical instruments which, according to the common view, are of dual - halal and haram - purpose, can be sold, bought, or used in a non-lahw manner for lawful purposes. Instruments, which the common view regards as special to lahw? music are not permissible to be sold, bought or used.
Q2: What are lahw instruments?
A: Those instruments typically used for lahw affairs and without any halal purpose are considered as lahw instruments.