A visual tribute to legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain

Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away in the US at the age of 73.

New Delhi | Updated: December 16, 2024 12:56 PM IST

4 min read

Ustad Zakir Hussain performs during the 100th birth anniversary of his father Ustad Alla Rakha, in Ahmedabad. (Source: File Photo)

Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at a hospital in the United States, his family confirmed in a statement.

Here’s a visual homage to the legend celebrating his life, legacy, and the timeless rhythm he brought to the world:

Zakir Hussain is one of the most renowned tabla players in India (Source: Express Archives)

Zakir Hussain was a child prodigy and renowned as a brilliant artiste. Even in his 60s, he elevated his legendary status, bringing an infectious joy to his performances on stage.

Zakir Hussain commanded the stage with an electrifying presence. (Source: Express Archives)

He had a unique ability to transcend the boundaries of classical music, collaborating with artistes from diverse genres — from jazz and rock to world music. These collaborations not only showcased his versatility but also played a pivotal role in introducing Indian classical music to global audiences.

The tabla maestro was settled in the US. (Source: Express Archives)

Off stage, Zakir Hussain’s humility and charm made him a beloved figure in the music community. Whether it is his playful anecdotes or the infectious laughter that echoed in his interviews, he remained grounded despite his towering achievements.

Zakir Hussain with his wife Antonia Minnecola (Source: Express Archives)

He often credited his late father, the legendary Ustad Alla Rakha, as his greatest inspiration and teacher, emphasising the importance of staying rooted in tradition while embracing change.

Hussain’s collaborations were a testament to his openness to experimentation (Source: Express Archives)

Zakir’s contribution to Indian music went beyond performances. As a composer, he scored music for acclaimed films like Heat and Dust and Vanaprastham, earning accolades for his ability to evoke deep emotions through his compositions. His work in films like The Perfect Murder further demonstrated his artistic range.

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The legend had the unique ability to transcend the boundaries of classical music (Source: Express Archives)

His live performances were not just a display of technical brilliance but a soulful conversation that resonated deeply with anyone who listened. For Zakir, the tabla was more than an instrument; it was an extension of his being, and every beat reflected his profound dedication and love for music.

Zakir Hussain’s humility and charm made him a beloved figure in the music community. (Source: Express Archives)

Moreover, he was a cultural ambassador, bringing the richness of Indian classical music to prestigious platforms like Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. His ability to engage with younger audiences, blending tradition with modernity, ensures that the tabla remains relevant and celebrated across generations.

The musician ensured the tabla remains relevant and celebrated across generations. (Source: Express Archives)

Zakir Hussain’s legacy is not just in his music but in the hearts he touches, the boundaries he dissolves, and the inspiration he provides to musicians and music lovers worldwide.

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