San Francisco, US – Renowned tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain passed away on Monday at the age of 73, following complications arising from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He had been hospitalized for two weeks and was moved to the intensive care unit (ICU) after his condition worsened.
Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 73
Confirming the news, his sister, Khurshid Aulia, stated that Hussain passed away peacefully after being taken off life support. “He passed away very peacefully after the ventilation machine was switched off. This was at 4 pm San Francisco time,” she told PTI.
Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, he was the son of the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha.
Over his illustrious six-decade career, Zakir Hussain emerged as one of the most celebrated figures in Indian classical music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
A Legacy of Musical Excellence
Zakir Hussain began playing the tabla at the tender age of seven and quickly rose to prominence, collaborating with India’s most iconic musicians, including Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, and Shivkumar Sharma. His versatility and innovation were evident in his ability to blend Indian classical traditions with global music styles.
In 1973, Hussain achieved international acclaim with his groundbreaking fusion project Shakti, alongside English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L. Shankar, and percussionist T.H. ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram. The ensemble combined Indian classical music with elements of jazz, creating a unique sound that captivated audiences around the globe.
Hussain also collaborated with notable Western artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison, further solidifying his reputation as a cultural ambassador who brought Indian classical music to the global stage.
Honors and Achievements
A recipient of numerous awards, Zakir Hussain won four Grammy Awards during his career, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. His contributions to Indian classical music earned him India’s highest civilian honors, including the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. These accolades underscored his influence as a global icon of Indian culture.
Tributes Pour In
As news of Hussain’s demise spread, an outpouring of tributes flooded social media from fans, artists, and public figures. Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej described him as a man of “immense humility and approachable nature,” reflecting the deep admiration many felt for the maestro.
The family released a statement honoring Hussain’s legacy, saying, “He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations to come.”
A Life Devoted to Music
Throughout his life, Zakir Hussain’s artistry transcended boundaries. His rhythmic genius and innovative spirit not only enriched Indian classical music but also inspired collaborations that bridged cultural divides. From his early days as a prodigy under his father’s guidance to becoming a global ambassador for Indian music, his journey was marked by dedication, creativity, and an unwavering passion for the tabla.
Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era, but his music, collaborations, and contributions to the global music scene will continue to resonate, ensuring his place among the legends of Indian classical music.
As the world mourns the loss of a true maestro, Zakir Hussain’s extraordinary life and career remain a testament to the transformative power of music.
The maestro may have departed, but his music will echo for generations to come, immortalizing his unparalleled contributions to the world of rhythm and melody.
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