Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, regarded as one of the finest percussionists of his generation, passed away on Monday at the age of 73 in a hospital in San Francisco. According to his family, Hussain succumbed to complications arising from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis after being hospitalized for the past two weeks.
The legendary musician is survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola and daughters Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of tabla legend Ustad Alla Rakha.
In a heartfelt statement, the family said, “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 Musical Genius with a Six-Decade Legacy
Starting his career at the tender age of seven, Zakir Hussain went on to revolutionize the world of music, collaborating with Indian classical maestros like Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, and Shivkumar Sharma. His talent extended beyond Indian borders, where he worked with international luminaries such as Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, and George Harrison, blending Indian classical music with global sounds.
His groundbreaking 1973 collaboration with John McLaughlin, L Shankar, and TH ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram pioneered the fusion of Indian classical music and jazz, redefining cross-cultural musical experiments.
Awards and Global Recognition
Hussain’s illustrious career earned him four Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. He was honored with some of India’s highest civilian awards: the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushanin 2023.
Condolences Pour In
Tributes poured in from across the globe, celebrating the unparalleled legacy of the tabla maestro.
Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej remembered Hussain for his humility and generosity: “He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge… His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations. He left us too soon.”
American drummer Nate Smith expressed gratitude, saying, “Thank you for all the music you gave us.”
Priyanka Chaturvedi, Rajya Sabha MP, hailed him as an “irreplaceable legend,” writing on X, “The world of music will be lesser without Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fans all around the world. My prayers, Om Shanti.”
A Legacy Etched in Music History
Hussain’s life was dedicated to bringing Indian classical music to a global audience, transcending boundaries and blending cultures. His immense contributions will remain an integral part of music history, inspiring countless musicians and admirers for generations to come.
