New Delhi, December 16 – With fingers that danced, floated, and soared over the tabla, Zakir Hussain created music that transcended boundaries, blending ragas with intricate rhythms to produce pure magic. More than just a tabla player, Hussain was a percussionist, composer, and even an actor—a true legend who belonged not just to India but to the world.
Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, leaving behind a legacy of over six decades of unparalleled contributions to music.
A Maestro Beyond Borders
Known for his groundbreaking work in Indian classical and fusion music, Hussain brought the tabla to the global stage, collaborating with legendary musicians from India and abroad. From jazz to world music concerts, he explored and mastered various genres, showcasing his "inclusive musical creativity."
In an interview with PTI a year ago, Hussain reflected, "As I grew up, my thinking aligned with the idea that music is just music—it’s neither Indian nor any other genre. So, working with non-Indian musicians felt like a natural collaboration."
Early Beginnings and Global Recognition
Born in Mumbai, Hussain was destined for musical greatness as the son of tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha. He performed his first concert at the tender age of seven and became a professional performer by the age of 12. In 1970, after completing his education, he moved to the United States, where his artistry transcended cultural boundaries.
Trailblazing Achievements
In February 2024, Hussain made history at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, becoming the first Indian musician to win three Grammys in a single year. He earned accolades for "This Moment," an album by his fusion music group Shakti, which included British guitarist John McLaughlin, vocalist Shankar Mahadevan, violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan, and percussionist Selvaganesh Vinayakram.
Additionally, he won awards for "Pashto" (Best Global Music Performance) alongside flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, banjo player Béla Fleck, and bassist Edgar Meyer, and for "As We Speak" (Best Contemporary Instrumental Album).
Shakti and Global Collaborations
A founding member of the groundbreaking fusion group Shakti, Hussain and his collaborators reunited for a world tour in early 2024, drawing enthusiastic audiences across the globe. Besides Shakti, he contributed to iconic projects such as Masters of Percussion, Planet Drum, and Tabla Beat Science, among others.
His collaborations with international legends like Yo-Yo Ma, Mickey Hart, Charles Lloyd, and Herbie Hancock further cemented his reputation as a global music icon.
A Timeless Legacy
Zakir Hussain's music knew no borders, and his artistry bridged cultures and generations. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire musicians and music lovers worldwide. As the maestro once said, "Music is universal," and through his life and work, he proved just that.
