Legendary Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 73
The world mourns the loss of Zakir Hussain, a globally renowned tabla virtuoso, who passed away at the age of 73. His family announced that he died in a San Francisco hospital from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Hussain’s impact on music transcended borders. A four-time Grammy Award winner and recipient of India’s second-highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan, he elevated the tabla from a traditional accompaniment to a celebrated solo instrument, captivating audiences worldwide.
Historically,the tabla,a pair of drums integral to Indian classical music,played a supporting role. However, Hussain’s innovative performances redefined its place, making it a star attraction in its own right. His unique style blended traditional Indian rhythms with global influences, creating a sound that resonated with diverse audiences.
Tributes poured in from across the globe following the announcement of his death. Sitar and tabla player nayan Ghosh, a childhood friend and collaborator for over 60 years, described the news as “devastating.” He eloquently captured Hussain’s legacy,stating,”He was a pathbreaker,a game-changer,an icon who put tabla and Indian music on the world map by transcending the boundaries of genre and inspiring generations of artistes.”
Renowned musicians echoed this sentiment. Guitarist John McLaughlin, who collaborated with Hussain in the groundbreaking group Shakti, remembered him as “the king, in whose hands, rhythm became magic.” Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej hailed Hussain as ”one of the greatest musicians and personalities india has ever produced.”
Political leaders also offered their condolences. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Hussain “a true genius who revolutionised the world of Indian classical music.” Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi described his passing as “a great loss for the music world,” while the U.S. Embassy in India expressed their grief,stating that Hussain was a “true maestro” and would be “forever in our hearts.”
born in Mumbai in 1951, Hussain’s musical journey began under the tutelage of his father, the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Allarakha Khan. He described his upbringing as an “atmosphere of music 24 hours a day,” a testament to his early immersion in the art form. By the age of seven, he was already sharing the stage with his father, performing alongside renowned musicians.
Hussain himself reflected on this formative period, recalling in a 2018 interview with his biographer Nasreen Munni Kabir: “From the age of seven, I sat on the stage with Abba whilst he played with so many greats. It was a lived experience for me, and it allowed me to absorb all that I had heard over the years.”
His prodigious talent quickly propelled him to international acclaim. as a teenager, he performed with the legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar, and by the age of 19, he was giving over 150 concerts annually, a testament to his dedication and skill. His legacy will continue to inspire musicians and music lovers for generations to come.
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Zakir Hussain: A Tabla Maestro’s Journey to Global Acclaim
Zakir Hussain, a name synonymous with the mesmerizing rhythms of the tabla, transcended geographical boundaries to become a global icon of Indian classical music. His career, marked by collaborations with legendary artists and a dedication to nurturing young talent, cemented his legacy as one of the most influential musicians of our time.
Hussain’s musical journey wasn’t just about personal achievement; it was about sharing the beauty of Indian classical music with the world. His performances, both solo and collaborative, captivated audiences worldwide. He contributed to film soundtracks, showcasing the versatility of the tabla beyond traditional settings. His 1992 album, Planet Drum, a collaboration with Mickey Hart, earned a Grammy Award in the inaugural “Best World Music Album” category, a testament to his ability to blend genres seamlessly.
His collaborations extended beyond the boundaries of genre and geography.He shared the stage with iconic artists such as George Harrison of the Beatles, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and Van Morrison, demonstrating the universal appeal of his musical talent.Throughout his career, he garnered seven Grammy nominations, winning four.
In a 2016 BBC interview, Hussain eloquently summarized his approach: “This is music’s appeal, not mine. I am a worshipper of music, who presents it in front of peopel.”
As his career progressed, Hussain became, as biographer Nasreen Munni Kabir noted, “one of the most sought-after accompanists to the very best of Hindustani classical musicians and dancers.” However,in his later years,he shifted his focus. Music writer Shailaja Khanna, speaking to the BBC, explained that Hussain spent the last two decades primarily collaborating with younger musicians.
This mentorship extended beyond the stage. Khanna highlighted hussain’s instrumental role in propelling emerging Indian musicians onto the international scene. “As of him,” she said, ”younger people where willing to pay 2,000 to 3,000 rupees ($23.59 to $35.38; £18.62 to £27.93) for a ticket which is very unusual for classical performances.”
Reflecting on his remarkable career, Hussain himself attributed his success to a lucky confluence of circumstances. “I am one of those musicians who came at the cusp of a great change in the music world and I was carried on that wave,” he explained. “I had the good fortune of establishing a very unhurried relationship with music,and simultaneously occurring,the wave took me places.”
Zakir Hussain’s legacy extends far beyond his remarkable accolades.He leaves behind a rich tapestry of musical contributions and a profound impact on the global landscape of Indian classical music, inspiring generations of musicians to follow in his footsteps.
