Shabana Azmi Critiques Media Coverage of Zakir Hussain's Passing
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Mumbai, Dec 18 (NationPress) Renowned actress Shabana Azmi has openly criticized the manner in which news is reported by the media today.
On Wednesday, the actress utilized the Stories feature on her Instagram to post a note stating, "What is this rush to disseminate news on social media without proper verification? I’m profoundly saddened by how… RIP Zakir Hussain.”
Shabana's remarks were prompted by the chaotic reporting that ensued after the announcement of Zakir Hussain’s death, which appeared late Sunday night. Numerous media outlets published the news without confirmation until an X user, who claimed to be the late musician's nephew, asserted that the Ustad was, in fact, alive, contrary to the media's assertions.
The truth regarding Zakir Hussain was only validated the next morning.
Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away on December 15, creating a significant void in the musical landscape of India. The Ustad's influence resonated across generations, affecting individuals from all walks of life, including influential figures and everyday people. His departure felt like a personal loss for many.
Numerous members of the film industry expressed their sorrow over his passing.
Bollywood icon Akshay Kumar took to social media to share a picture of Zakir Hussain, stating, "I am very saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain Sahab. He was truly a gem of our nation’s musical legacy. Om Shanti.”
Veteran Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan also expressed his condolences on X, sharing a nostalgic photo where Zakir Hussain is seen guiding him on the tabla. He wrote, “Zakir Bhai! He left us too early. Nevertheless, we are thankful for the moments he provided us and the legacy he has left through his art. Farewell and thank you.”
Oscar and Grammy-winning composer A. R. Rahman described Zakir as a source of inspiration, lamenting the missed opportunities for collaboration in recent years. He expressed, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un. Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a monumental figure who brought the tabla to international prominence. His loss is profound for all of us. I regret not having collaborated with him as frequently in recent years, despite our plans for an album together. You will be greatly missed. May his family and the innumerable students he influenced across the globe find the fortitude to endure this tremendous loss.”
