Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain passes away at 73 in San Francisco

Team Udayavani, Dec 15, 2024, 10:50 PM IST

New Delhi: The world of music mourns the loss of legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, who passed away at the age of 73. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting confirmed his demise in a heartfelt tweet, calling him a “true musical genius” whose contributions will forever be cherished.

Hussain, known for revolutionizing the art of tabla and taking it to the global stage, had been battling health issues in a San Francisco hospital for the past two weeks. He was admitted to the ICU due to heart-related complications, as revealed by his friend and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, and his manager, Nirmala Bachani.

The world has lost a true musical genius.

Zakir Hussain’s contributions to the world of music will forever be cherished. #ZakirHussain pic.twitter.com/cCicgRPpoW

— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) December 15, 2024

Born as the eldest son of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Allah Rakha, Zakir Hussain carved his niche in the world of music over a career spanning six decades. He received numerous accolades, including five Grammy Awards and India’s highest civilian honors—the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023).

Hussain’s ability to blend Indian classical music with global sounds made him a pioneer of fusion music. His collaboration with renowned artists like John McLaughlin, L Shankar, and Vikku Vinayakram in the 1970s broke new ground, introducing the world to a unique amalgamation of Indian classical music and jazz.

The loss of this cultural icon has left an indelible void in the music world. Fans and fellow musicians worldwide are mourning his passing, remembering his immense contributions to art and culture. Tributes are pouring in for the maestro, whose rhythm and artistry will continue to resonate for generations to come.

(With PTI inputs)