The world of music mourns the loss of Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla maestro, who passed away on December 16, 2024, at the age of 73 in San Francisco, USA. Hussain, a global icon of Indian classical music, succumbed to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a chronic and progressive lung disease. His family confirmed the news, calling his passing a monumental loss to the world of rhythm and melody.
A Towering Legacy in Indian Classical Music
Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of legendary tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha, from whom he inherited his extraordinary talent. Renowned for his «dancing fingers» and revolutionary contributions to Indian percussion, Zakir Hussain was instrumental in elevating the tabla from a supporting instrument to a global centerpiece. He seamlessly bridged the worlds of Indian classical music and international genres, earning accolades worldwide.
Hussain’s career spanned over five decades, during which he collaborated with iconic artists such as Ravi Shankar, John McLaughlin, and Shivkumar Sharma. He was a founding member of the fusion band Shakti, which blended Indian classical music with jazz. His influence extended beyond music into popular culture, making him a household name, particularly through memorable advertisements like the “Wah Taj” campaign in the 1980s.
Awards and Honors
Zakir Hussain’s artistry earned him numerous prestigious awards. He was a three-time Grammy Award winner, including the Best Global Music Album for his work with Shakti. In India, he received the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023), among other accolades. Internationally, he was honored with the National Heritage Fellowship in the U.S. and the Order of Arts and Letters in France.
Tributes from Across the Globe
Condolences poured in from fans, fellow artists, and dignitaries worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Hussain «a towering figure of Indian music whose rhythms united hearts globally.» Actor Amitabh Bachchan shared his grief on social media, stating, “A very sad day. The world has lost an irreplaceable icon.” Notable figures like Kamal Haasan, Kangana Ranaut, and cricketer Shikhar Dhawan also expressed their sorrow and admiration for his legacy.
Musicians from various genres, including Mohanlal and Shankar Mahadevan, highlighted his contributions to global music and fusion, while spiritual leader Sadhguru reflected on Hussain’s lifelong devotion to his art.
Impact Beyond Music
Beyond his musical genius, Zakir Hussain was a teacher, collaborator, and cultural ambassador who inspired generations. He mentored countless young musicians and was a pivotal figure in promoting Indian classical music internationally. His contributions helped popularize Indian percussion in Western orchestras and brought Hindustani classical music into global focus.
Hussain also made significant contributions to cinema, providing music for films such as Heat and Dust and Vanaprastham, and lending his voice and expertise to documentaries that explored the depth of Indian music.
Cause of Death and Final Days
Zakir Hussain was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a condition that causes progressive lung scarring and difficulty breathing. Despite battling this illness, he continued to perform and inspire until his final days. Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, a former Kathak dancer, and their two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
A Loss That Transcends Borders
Zakir Hussain’s death marks the end of an era for Indian classical music. His rhythms and teachings will continue to echo in concert halls and classrooms across the globe. As tributes pour in, the maestro’s unparalleled contributions to music remain a source of inspiration for artists and fans alike.
The funeral service is expected to take place in San Francisco, with a memorial planned in Mumbai to honor his legacy. The world bids farewell to a legend whose art will resonate for generations.