San Francisco, December 16, 2024 – The global music community mourns the loss of Ustad Zakir Hussain, the tabla maestro who transformed Indian classical music into a universal language. The legendary musician passed away at the age of 73 due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. His family confirmed that he had been undergoing treatment in a San Francisco hospital for the past two weeks before his condition deteriorated.
Zakir Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era for the tabla
Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era for the tabla, an instrument he elevated to unparalleled prominence on the global stage. Revered for his dexterity, speed, and unmatched creativity, Zakir Hussain’s influence transcended boundaries, captivating audiences across cultures for more than six decades. His collaborations with Indian and international artists brought Indian classical music to new heights.
In 1973, Hussain joined forces with guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L. Shankar, and percussionist T.H. ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram to create the groundbreaking fusion band Shakti. This collaboration introduced the world to a harmonious blend of Indian classical music and jazz, forever changing the global music landscape.
The tabla maestro’s contributions to music earned him several accolades, including four Grammy Awards. Earlier this year, he received three Grammys at the 66th Grammy Awards, a testament to his enduring relevance in the contemporary music scene.
Prominent figures across the world paid heartfelt tributes to the legend. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed him as a “true genius,” highlighting his role in taking Indian music to global audiences. Microsoft Chairman Satya Nadella called him a “legend who brought immense joy through rhythmic brilliance,” while industrialist Gautam Adani described his loss as “a void in the cultural fabric of the world.”
Ustad Zakir Hussain was more than just a musician; he was a global ambassador for Indian art and culture. His mastery of rhythm inspired countless musicians, including renowned flutist Pt. Ronu Majumdar, who described Hussain as a unique artist who made everyone feel like family. “Today is a very sad day for the music world. Zakir bhai was beyond imagination as an artist,” said Majumdar in his tribute.
The maestro’s ability to inspire transcended his music. His humility and approachability won hearts worldwide, as Grammy-winning producer Ricky Kej noted. “He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge who nurtured numerous musicians,” said Kej, adding that Hussain’s legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Political leaders also mourned the loss of the maestro. Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria described his passing as an irreparable loss, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted his significant contributions to Indian classical music. Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan remembered him as a cherished cultural icon, while Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called him a custodian of India’s rich musical traditions.
Zakir Hussain’s contributions were not confined to the classical realm. His association with the film industry was notable, with his final on-screen appearance in Dev Patel’s film Monkey Man earlier this year. His rhythmic genius inspired even non-musical domains, as Harsh Goenka noted in his tribute: “The world falls silent as the tabla loses its maestro.”
Born in 1951, Zakir Hussain inherited his musical prowess from his father, Ustad Alla Rakha, another tabla legend. Hussain’s career began as a prodigy nurtured in the Hindustani classical tradition, and he quickly ascended to international fame. Despite his global success, he remained deeply connected to his roots, often emphasizing the spiritual essence of music in his performances.
He is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and his daughters, Anisa and Isabella. The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans and admirers worldwide.
Hussain’s tabla maker, Haridas Vhatkar, poignantly remarked, “I made tablas for him, and he made my life.” This sentiment captures the profound impact Ustad Zakir Hussain had on everyone he encountered, whether through his music or his unparalleled humanity.
As tributes pour in from every corner of the world, it is clear that the sound of Zakir Hussain’s tabla will continue to resonate in the hearts of millions, reminding us of the eternal power of music to unite and inspire. His rhythms, much like his legacy, will echo forever
