In brief
Zakir Hussain, a titan of Indian classical music and celebrated tabla player, has passed away at 73 after battling idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. His family confirmed the news from a San Francisco hospital, prompting an outpouring of tributes that highlight his transformative impact on the tabla and Indian music’s international profile.
Zakir Hussain, who won four Grammy Awards and received the Padma Vibhushan, began his musical journey in Mumbai under the guidance of his father, Ustad Allarakha Khan. At the tender age of seven, he graced stages alongside his father, absorbing the intricacies of rhythm and melody. His extraordinary talent soon led him to collaborate with legends like sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar and to perform globally, captivating audiences with his rhythmic virtuosity.Hussain’s groundbreaking album "Planet Drum," created with drummer Mickey Hart, won a Grammy for "Best World Music Album." Throughout his career, he participated in countless performances, enriching the musical landscape by collaborating with various artists such as George Harrison, Yo-Yo Ma, and Van Morrison. Over the years, he garnered seven Grammy nominations, and many recognized him as a cultural ambassador for Indian classical music.The music community mourns his loss, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling him a "true genius" and tributes flooding in from fellow musicians and admirers worldwide. Hussain's legacy extends to his role in nurturing and promoting younger Indian talents, elevating them to global audiences, and instilling a renewed appreciation for traditional forms of music. Music writer Shailaja Khanna remarked on his unique ability to attract audiences willing to invest in classical performances, making concerts a sought-after experience.Reflecting on his immense fortune to be part of a changing musical era, Hussain shared his reverence for music as a lifelong devotion rather than personal acclaim. His profound influence will continue to resonate, ensuring his music lives on in the hearts of many for generations to come.
