New Delhi: The world of music mourns the loss of Ustad Zakir Hussain, a legendary tabla virtuoso, who passed away on Sunday in San Francisco due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He was 73.
Hussain, considered one of the finest tabla players of all time, was hospitalized for two weeks before his condition worsened, requiring ICU care. He is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and daughters, Anisa and Isabella Qureshi. Born on March 9, 1951, Hussain was the son of tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha, and he continued his father’s legacy, shaping Indian classical music on the global stage.
In a career spanning six decades, Hussain collaborated with iconic artists across genres, including Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, Shivkumar Sharma, and international legends like Yo-Yo Ma, George Harrison, and Bela Fleck. His fusion projects, particularly the 1973 collaboration with John McLaughlin, L. Shankar, and T.H. Vinayakram in the band Shakti, blended Indian classical music with jazz, creating a new global sound.
Hussain’s immense contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards, the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. Earlier this year, he won three Grammys at the 66th Grammy Awards, solidifying his place as a global cultural icon.
Known for his humility and charisma, Hussain became a household name in India through his memorable appearances in commercials, particularly the 1988 Taj Mahal Tea ad, where his iconic dialogue, “Wah Taj,” became a timeless catchphrase.
Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with fellow musicians and public figures expressing their grief. Grammy-winning artist Ricky Kej described Hussain as a “treasure trove of skill and knowledge,” and American drummer Nate Smith thanked him for his musical contributions. Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi referred to him as an “irreplaceable legend” and expressed her condolences to his family and fans.
Hussain’s extraordinary journey leaves behind an indelible mark on the world of music. His contributions have inspired countless musicians, and his influence will resonate through generations.
