The world of music mourns the loss of a legend, as Padma Vibhushan Ustad Zakir Hussain, the revered Tabla Maestro, passed away on December 15, 2024, in the United States at the age of 73.
Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, India, Zakir Hussain was destined for greatness. Son of the illustrious tabla player Ustad Allah Rakha Khan (who was also a renowned Music Composer known as A.R. Qureshi), Zakir Hussain began his musical journey at a tender age. Under the guidance of his father and other esteemed gurus, he honed his craft, eventually emerging as one of the most accomplished tabla players of all time.
Throughout his illustrious career, spanning over five decades, Zakir Hussain collaborated with a diverse array of musicians, from Indian classical maestros to international jazz and rock legends. His genre-bending approach and innovative spirit helped popularize Indian classical music globally, earning him widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Some of his most notable collaborations include working with Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, and L. Subramaniam, as well as with international artists like George Harrison, John McLaughlin, and Mickey Hart.
Zakir Hussain’s contributions to music went beyond his performances. He was a dedicated teacher, having instructed numerous students in the art of tabla playing. He also founded the Zakir Hussain’s tabla academy, which provided training and mentorship to aspiring musicians.
Throughout his life, Zakir Hussain received numerous accolades, including the United States National Endowment for the Arts’ National Heritage Fellowship; the Government of India’s Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1990); Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, Ratna Sadsya (2018); the Padma Shri (1998, 1988); the Padma Bhushan (2002); the Padma Vibhushan (2023); and four Grammy Awards, namely, Best Contemporary World Music Album (2009); Best Contemporary Instrumental Album (2024); Best Global Music Album (2024); and Best Global Music Performance (2024).
He was also conferred with several honorary doctorates from prestigious institutions.
Ustad Zakir Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. His passing leaves a void in the world of music, but his legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians to come.
As we bid farewell to this musical giant, we remember his incredible talent, his passion for music, and his generosity of spirit. His music will continue to live on, a testament to his enduring legacy.
The writer of this article cherishes the privilege of attending three of Ustad Zakir Hussain’s mesmerizing live performances in Dubai in 1990s. The unforgettable backstage moments on each occasion, including a meeting with Ustad Allah Rakha Khan, remain etched in the heart and soul.
Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain. Your rhythms will forever resonate in millions of hearts, including mine.
~ Balwant S. Wadhwani