Music misses its beat as legendary Zakir Hussain passes away at 73

Renowned tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, widely regarded as the greatest tabla player of his generation, passed away at 73 due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Hussain had been hospitalized for two weeks before his condition worsened, leading to his peaceful demise in the intensive care unit of a San Francisco hospital.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan recalls ‘Special’ meeting with PM Modi ahead of Raj Kapoor Film Festival

Born on March 9, 1951, Hussain was the son of legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha. Beginning his musical journey at the age of seven, he emerged as a global ambassador for Indian classical music over a six-decade career. Hussain collaborated with India’s most iconic musicians, including Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, and Shivkumar Sharma.

His pioneering 1973 fusion project, Shakti, with John McLaughlin, L Shankar, and TH Vinayakram, combined Indian classical music with jazz, breaking new ground in world music. He also worked with international legends like Yo-Yo Ma, George Harrison, and Mickey Hart, further bridging the East-West musical divide.

A recipient of four Grammy Awards, including three in 2023, Hussain was honored with India’s Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023).

Survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola and daughters Anisa and Isabella Qureshi, Hussain leaves behind an indelible legacy cherished worldwide. His influence will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.