Legendary Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 73 in the US
Zakir Hussain, one of the greatest tabla maestros, passed away at the age of 73 in the United States. He had been battling heart-related health issues and was admitted to the ICU at a San Francisco hospital. Hussain, the son of legendary tabla artist Ustad Alla Rakha Khan, had also been dealing with blood pressure problems.
Zakir Hussain’s Journey of Musical Brilliance
Zakir Hussain started learning tabla at the age of seven and gave his first performance across India by the age of 12.
Over the years, he became a global ambassador for Indian classical music, blending traditional rhythms with world music. His unique talent made him one of the most celebrated musicians internationally.
Zakir Hussain’s Contributions to Music and Film
Hussain was not only a master performer but also a brilliant composer.
- He worked on music for several acclaimed Indian and international films, showcasing his tabla skills to the world.
- His performances captivated audiences globally and helped bridge Indian music with other genres.
Zakir Hussain: A Legacy of Awards and Honors
Throughout his illustrious career, Zakir Hussain received numerous awards, including India’s top civilian honors:
- Padma Shri (1988)
- Padma Bhushan (2002)
- Padma Vibhushan (2023)
He was also honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1990, the highest recognition for performing arts in India.
Zakir Hussain: A Life in Music
Zakir Hussain had been living in San Francisco for nearly four decades with his family.
- Despite being away from India, he remained an active and influential figure in global music circles, bringing the tabla and Indian classical music to an international audience.
The world mourns the loss of a musical genius whose rhythms will continue to echo in the hearts of millions.
