Zakir Hussain, legendary Tabla maestro passes away at 73 in US

Renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 in a hospital in San Francisco, USA, due to chronic lung disease, his family confirmed on Monday. Hussain had been hospitalized for two weeks before his condition worsened, leading to his admission to the ICU. Though rumors of his death circulated on Sunday, his family initially denied them, only to confirm the heartbreaking news the following day.

A statement from his family expressed profound grief, describing Hussain as "one of the world’s most transcendent musicians," adding that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of music lovers worldwide. "He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe," the family said.

Hussain, the eldest son of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Allah Rakha, is widely credited with taking the tabla to the global stage. His unparalleled mastery of the instrument, combined with his innovative contributions to music, earned him accolades worldwide, including five Grammy Awards and three prestigious Padma Awards. Hussain was honored with the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Known for his pioneering work in blending Indian classical music with international genres, Hussain’s 1973 collaboration with guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L. Shankar, and percussionist Vikku Vinayakram marked a revolutionary moment in the fusion of Indian and Western musical traditions. This groundbreaking project laid the foundation for a new musical genre, merging the rhythms of Indian classical music with jazz.

Hussain’s contributions to music were not confined to his solo career; his collaborations with some of the world’s greatest artists made him a global ambassador for Indian music. His influence extended beyond the concert stage, inspiring musicians, students, and music lovers alike.

The Indian Consulate in San Francisco also paid tribute to Hussain, acknowledging his immense contribution to the world of music. "His legacy will live on through his music and the lives he influenced," the Consulate’s statement said.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all corners of the globe. Political leaders, celebrities, and industry giants, including Nitin Gadkari, Rahul Gandhi, Gautam Adani, and Anand Mahindra, expressed their sorrow and admiration for the tabla legend, sharing memories of his artistry and profound impact on the world of music.