Renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away on Sunday, December 16, 2024, at the age of 73. He was known worldwide for his exceptional talent and remarkable contributions to Indian classical music and world music. The legendary musician had been admitted to the intensive care unit due to heart-related complications.
Zakir Hussain's family confirmed the news, adding that Zakir had been admitted in the hospital for the last two weeks and was take to ICU after his condition detoriated.
#ZakirHussain, one of the world’s most transcendent musicians, has passed away at the age of 73 - confirms Jon Bleicher of Prospect PR, representing the family. pic.twitter.com/Hkrm5xkrqK
— ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2024
Zakir Hussain: A Tabla Prodigy
Hussain, widely considered the greatest tabla player of his time, is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and his two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
Zakir Hussain was the son of the legendary tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha Khan. Zakir had always been considered as a child prodigy. He started playing the tabla at the age of seven and began touring India by the time he was twelve.
Over the years, Zakir became a global icon, renowned worldwide for his extraordinary rhythm, creativity, and versatility. He bridged traditional Indian classical music with global musical genres.
Zakir Hussain: Career
Zakir’s career spanned decades of excellence, during which he composed and performed for several acclaimed Indian and international films. His collaborations with global musicians elevated him to an iconic status, making him a pioneer in world music. He moved to San Francisco nearly 40 years ago, where he continued to innovate and inspire in the world of music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Zakir received numerous national and international honors. These include some of India’s most prestigious civilian awards: the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. In 1990, he was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the highest recognition in Indian performing arts.
A Loss for the Music Industry
The music community and his admirers across the globe are mourning the loss of this legendary artist. Zakir Hussain’s legacy will live on in his timeless contributions to music, inspiring countless generations to come. His passing marks the end of an era for traditional music lovers.
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