In the early hours of December 16th, people began receiving phone messages informing them of the passing away of Tabla legend Ustad Zakir Hussain. Every Indian was grieved by this news. The star who brought fame to our country through our traditional instrument ‘Tabla’ had departed. He was 73. According to reports, he was admitted to the intensive care unit of a San Francisco hospital, USA. Hussain was being treated at the hospital for heart problems.
Ustad Zakir Hussain, widely regarded as one of the best Tabla players of all time. He was a composer, percussionist, music producer, and film actor. Ustad Zakir Hussain was a master of his craft, bringing Tabla to international prominence. His contributions to both traditional and contemporary music has left an mark on world music.
Over a career spanning almost six decades, the Ustad received numerous prestigious awards. He was awarded the titles of Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. In February this year he received three awards at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. Despite these awards and accolades, the Ustad remained grounded. In several media interviews and winning speeches, he expressed viewing himself as a lifelong student of music.
The news of his demise created an outpouring of tributes from politicians, artists and admirers worldwide. Musicians and fans have shared memories about his significant impact on their lives, both celebrating his incredible journey and mourning his passing.
Born to Ustad Alla Rakha Qureshi on 9 March, 1951, Zakir Hussain attended St. Michael’s High School in Mahim and graduated from St Xavier’s College, Mumbai.
Zakir inherited his talent and passion for Tabla from his iconic father Ustad Alla Rakha. A child prodigy playing at the age of five he evolved to become the reigning king of Tabla players. Zakir began performing after demonstrating extraordinary promise at a very young age. His exceptional talent and intuitive rhythm quickly brought him to stardom in the Indian classical music world and transformed him into an ‘Ustad’. He altered the function of the Tabla, elevating it from a supporting instrument to a central character in concerts.
He teamed with Indian classical legends in traditional settings, while his revolutionary collaborations with international artists such as John McLaughlin in ‘Shakti’ and Mickey Hart in ‘Planet Drum’ extended boundaries and brought glory to our Country.
In one of his many interviews we saw on YouTube, he was asked about his best performance. He replied modestly, ‘My best is yet to come’. He goes on to say that it was a privilege for him to perform with Indian Classical Music legends from four generations, and he considers himself blessed to have had the opportunity.
In another interview, he was asked when did he consider becoming a professional Tabla player. He claimed to have grown up with Tabla since birth. Tabla is his brother and friend, and he has never considered any other profession but playing Tabla.
In another interview he says ‘Tabla has life, it has expressions and you can help to express emotions from it ’. No wonder he is the greatest Table player.
In India he was a resident of our Hills. Ustad is survived by his wife Antonia, a Kathak dancer and teacher, who was also his manager. They have two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Ustad has two brothers: Fazal Qureshi, also a tabla player and Taufiq Qureshi, percussionist, and one sister.
Rest in Peace, Ustad, you have given us incredible performances throughout your life. You’ve made us proud and we shall always be proud of you.
The beats of your Tabla will echo in the hearts of millions for generations to come!
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