Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain is no more. The 73-year-old, known for revolutionizing Indian classical music on a global stage, passed away on Sunday, December 15, in the United States. Hussain had been critically ill and in the ICU for two weeks at a San Francisco hospital due to heart and lung-related complications.
The son of tabla icon Ustad Allah Rakha, Hussain had not been in the best of health for quite a long time, leading to many canceled shows ahead. Close family members from India rushed to be at his bedside during the final stages of life. According to an earlier statement by a close family member, “Doctors weren’t all that optimistic about his chances of recovering and it was a rather worsening trend.”
Zakir Hussain was a world icon in Indian music with a long career. He received immense acclaim for his innovative approach to rhythm and his collaborations with international artists. Hussain’s extraordinary talent has won him multiple honors, among which are four Grammy Awards. This year he received the one for Best Global Music Performance.
Watch talent of Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain
Earlier, prominent flutist and close friend of Hussain, Rakesh Chaurasia expressed his deep concern by saying, “We all are worried and praying for him.” Journalist Pervaiz Alam also made it clear on social media saying, “Hussain’s brother-in-law Ayub Aulia has urged fans to continue praying for him.”
Zakir Hussain was extremely devoted to his craft. In a prior interview, he modestly described himself as a “student”, who was only trying and learning. “The opportunities to be inspired by the young musicians, and his father’s relentless enthusiasm for the music kept me moving forward”, he had once said.
Zakir Hussain, tabla maestro, the end of an era in Indian classical music. His work will be etched deep in the hearts of all his fans worldwide.
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