Ustad Zakir Hussain: Tributes pour in as rhythm of Tabla legend falls silent

New Delhi: Ustad Zakir Hussain, the revered Tabla maestro, passed away on Sunday, December 15 in San Francisco at 73, reports Dynamite News correspondent.

Zakir Hussain was suffering from complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Greatest percussionist
Widely regarded as one of the greatest percussionists of all time, Ustad Zakir Hussain was not only a master of his craft but also a cultural bridge-builder who elevated Indian classical music to international acclaim.

His contributions to both traditional and contemporary music have left an indelible mark on the global music landscape.

Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Zakir Hussain was the eldest son of the legendary Tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha.

Zakir Hussain was a trailblazer in blending Indian classical music with global genres, creating groundbreaking collaborations that expanded the reach of his art.

Partnered with legends
He partnered with legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Vilayat Khan in traditional settings, while his groundbreaking collaborations with international musicians such as John McLaughlin in 'Shakti' and Mickey Hart in 'Planet Drum' pushed boundaries.

The 'Planet Drum' album earned him a Grammy Award and showcased his extraordinary ability to merge cultural rhythms into a harmonious global sound.

Six decades career
Over a career spanning almost six decades, Zakir Hussain received numerous prestigious awards, including:
Padma Shri (1988) and Padma Bhushan (2002) from the Indian government, 4 Grammy Awards for his contribution to world music, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, recognising his excellence in Indian classical music, the National Heritage Fellowship, the highest award for traditional artists in the US.

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Tributes pour in
The news of the demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain has triggered an outpouring of tributes from leaders, artists, and fans worldwide.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X and said that Ustad Zakir Hussain will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music.

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan expressed his sorrow by saying, "A genius...an unmatched maestro...an immeasurable loss...Zakir Hussain...has left us."

Film star and BJP Lok Sabha MP Hema Malini posted, “The world mourns the passing of tabla maestro Zakir Hussain in the US yesterday. He brought name and fame to his land of birth with his exemplary skill with the tabla. Farewell to a much loved son of India.”

Renowned film star Kamal Haasan shared a throwback picture with Hussain on X along with a heartfelt note, “Zakir Bhai! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art. Goodbye and Thank you."

Noted music composer singer AR Rahman took X and wrote a long note with Zakir Husain picture.

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar posted and express his condolence on X.

Grammy-winner Ricky Kej too took to X to pay his tributes to Ustad Zakir Hussain. 

National Award-winning actor Nithya Menen remembered Zakir Hussain with these words, "There is one regret I will have - that the day actually won't come where I see this extraordinary artist performing live. What a special soul, with an unadulterated connection to the divine. A true artist. Who didn't take himself so seriously? Such playfulness and lightness in his music and yet, an undeniable intensity that made me forget to breathe. With a classical instrument, he somehow created comedy, made you laugh, and simultaneously marvel at his enormous talent. One of my two favorite people. Both gone now.”

Chairman of Mahindra Group, Anand Mahindra wrote, “The rhythm of India paused today…In tribute.”

Survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and daughters, Anisa and Isabella, his music will continue to inspire countless musicians and listeners.

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