San Francisco, 15 December: Legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, known for redefining Indian classical music on a global stage, passed away today at the age of 73 in a hospital in San Francisco, USA. The iconic musician had been battling heart-related complications.

Confirming the news, his manager, Nirmala Bachani, shared that the virtuoso had been undergoing treatment at the hospital.

Hussain’s unmatched talent and artistic contributions had earned him global acclaim. A 2009 feature in The New York Times described him as a musician with a “fearsome technique” and “an impish strain of virtuosity,” adding that his whimsical inventiveness made his performances exuberant and accessible.

Born in Bombay (now Mumbai), Zakir Hussain was the eldest son of legendary tabla player Ustad Allah Rakha. Stepping into his father’s shoes, he not only mastered the craft but also expanded its boundaries, turning the tabla into a universal language of rhythm.

A Prodigy’s Journey

Recalling the beginning of his illustrious career, Zakir once shared a heartwarming anecdote about his first booking. A concert invitation addressed to his father reached their home, but Zakir, then only 13, responded on behalf of his father, stating he was unavailable but offering himself for the engagement. He left out his age in the letter, and the booking marked the start of his incredible journey.

Over a career spanning six decades, Hussain collaborated with world-renowned artists across genres, including Indian classical, jazz, and fusion music. His 1973 project Shakti—featuring English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram—broke new ground by blending Indian classical music with elements of jazz.

Tributes Pour In

News of Zakir Hussain’s passing sent shockwaves across the globe, with leaders, artists, and industrialists expressing their grief and admiration for the maestro’s unparalleled contributions.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari called Hussain’s death an “irreparable loss” to Indian music and art. In a heartfelt tribute, he posted:
“The news of the death of renowned tabla player Padma Vibhushan Ustad Zakir Hussain is extremely sad. His contributions to the field of music are unprecedented, and his dedication will always be remembered. May God grant peace to the departed soul and strength to his family and admirers. Om Shanti!”

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his condolences, calling Hussain’s demise a profound loss to the global music community. He wrote: “The demise of world renowned tabla player, 'Padma Vibhushan' Ustad Zakir Hussain ji is extremely sad and an irreparable loss to the music world. I pray to God to grant salvation to the departed soul and give strength to his bereaved family and grief-stricken fans to bear this immense loss.”

Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami wrote “The demise of renowned tabla player, Padma Vibhushan awardee Ustad Zakir Hussain ji is an irreparable loss to the music world. I pray to God to give strength to the bereaved family and fans to bear this immense pain. The contribution made by Zakir ji in the field of music is unforgettable.”

Industrialist Anand Mahindra summed up the sentiment with a poetic note, saying:
“The rhythm of India paused today.”
He also shared a clip of a mesmerizing jugalbandi between Hussain and the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia lauded Hussain for transcending borders and generations through his music, stating:
“Zakir Hussain Ji’s tabla spoke a universal language, breaking barriers of culture and age.”

A Life of Excellence and Accolades

Zakir Hussain’s contribution to music earned him numerous prestigious awards. He was the recipient of five Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. His accolades in India include the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, marking him as one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians.

Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Known for his ability to seamlessly blend Indian classical traditions with global genres, Zakir Hussain brought tabla into mainstream global music. His collaboration with renowned international artists showcased his versatility and cemented his status as an ambassador of Indian music.

In addition to his musical brilliance, Zakir Hussain was also an engaging storyteller on stage, sharing anecdotes and insights that connected audiences to his art on a personal level.

The Rhythm Lives On

Though Ustad Zakir Hussain is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the countless recordings, compositions, and collaborations he has gifted the world. His music not only celebrated the rich heritage of Indian classical art but also built bridges across cultures, making the tabla a universally loved instrument.

As tributes continue to pour in, the void left by his passing will be deeply felt in the world of music. Yet, his rhythms, marked by a unique blend of technical mastery and emotional depth, will resonate forever.