Zakir Hussain: The Maestro of Masters

Mumbai, Dec 16 (NationPress) The music industry mourns the loss of a true icon with the passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain. The celebrated tabla virtuoso succumbed to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in San Francisco, California, at the age of 73. The late artist introduced new dimensions to Indian music, sharing the rich culture and humility of our musical heritage worldwide.
Zakir, born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, was the eldest son of tabla maestro Alla Rakha and is recognized as one of the greatest tabla players in history. Not only was he a remarkable musician, but the Ustad was also renowned for his personality, his conduct on stage, and his respect for the art and fellow artists.
He resonated with audiences across generations due to his extraordinary talent, charisma, and his ability to seamlessly merge with various musical genres. The image of him showcasing his tabla skills for a tea brand remains a cherished memory for many who grew up in the 1990s.
During a time when Indian television commercials were still finding their footing, it was Zakir who provided the necessary boost with his dazzling screen presence, unparalleled tabla mastery, and his signature phrase, “Waah Taj”.
His influence was truly international as he not only elevated Indian music but also collaborated with numerous global artists, including George Harrison from the legendary band, The Beatles, on the 1973 album ‘Living in the Material World’, and John Handy for the album ‘Hard Work’. He also contributed to Van Morrison's 1979 album ‘Into the Music’ and ‘Earth’.
Zakir Hussain's impressive career was recognized with numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards, the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan. He also received the Government of India's Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, Ratna Sadsya, and the United States National Endowment for the Arts' National Heritage Fellowship, the highest honor awarded to traditional artists and musicians.
Zakir Hussain continues to leave a profound impact on India’s music scene and its cultural heritage.