The world mourns the loss of Ustad Zakir Hussain, a tabla maestro whose extraordinary talent and contributions to Indian classical music resonated globally. Passing away at 73 in San Francisco due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the legendary musician left behind an unmatched legacy. As tributes poured in from musicians, actors, and politicians, Hussain was remembered for his humility, collaborations, and dedication to nurturing young talent.
‘Unmatched Maestro’: Tributes Pour In for Zakir Hussain
New Delhi: The Indian classical music world lost a luminary on Monday with the passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain. The tabla virtuoso, celebrated for revolutionising the instrument and elevating it to global acclaim, succumbed to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at 73. Hussain’s family confirmed his demise, and heartfelt tributes soon began pouring in.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim. His loss is immeasurable for all of us,” said renowned composer A.R. Rahman on X. “I regret not collaborating with him as much as we had planned. You shall be truly missed.”
Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Hussain was more than just a tabla player. He was a cultural ambassador who bridged borders with his music. Over his illustrious career, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and India’s second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan, in 2023. Additionally, he earned four Grammy Awards for his exceptional work, making him a global icon.
Celebrated for Humility and Mentorship
Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej remembered Zakir Hussain as a “treasure trove of skill and knowledge.” Kej lauded the maestro’s humility and his role in shaping the careers of numerous musicians. “His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations,” he shared.
Actor Kamal Haasan expressed his gratitude with an emotional post: “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.”
Meanwhile, filmmaker Hansal Mehta referred to Hussain as the man who “made the tabla sexy” and brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront
A Rich Legacy in Music and Film
Hussain’s contributions extended beyond classical music. Actor-director Nandita Das, who collaborated with him for the film Manto, reminisced about their creative journey. “One phone call and he said yes to the film,” Das shared. “We argued, we laughed, we talked. I had the privilege of learning from him.”
She added, “I was hoping to continue unfinished conversations with him someday.” Her tribute was accompanied by photos of their work together, underscoring the personal bond they shared.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted Hussain’s global impact, calling him a “cultural ambassador who bridged borders and generations.”
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reflected on his ability to popularise Indian music worldwide, saying, “His passing is a monumental loss to culture and humanity.”
An Irreplaceable Loss
Actor Amitabh Bachchan summed up the collective grief, calling Hussain an “unmatched maestro” and describing his death as “an immeasurable loss.” American drummer Nate Smith and countless others thanked him for the music he gave to the world.
Zakir Hussain’s career wasn’t just about personal accolades; it was about creating opportunities and fostering talent. He collaborated with legends across genres, from jazz to fusion, breaking barriers and redefining music.
Ustad Zakir Hussain’s demise marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide. Through his art, he transcended borders, uniting people with his rhythmic genius. As the world mourns his loss, his contributions to Indian classical music and global artistry remain etched in history.
What will Zakir Hussain’s legacy mean for future generations of musicians?
Share your favorite memory of Zakir Hussain’s music and let his rhythm live on in our hearts.
