<p><span class="region">New Delhi</span>
<p>Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rare gem of Indian classical music, died at the age of 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. </p></p>
<p>The late tabla maestro was a known face not just in India but enjoyed global fame due to his talent. But Zakir owed his talent to his father who was a devout worshipper of Goddess Saraswati. Once, during an interview, Zakir Hussain remembered how his father on his birth, did not utter azaan (Muslims’ call to prayer as is the norm) but tabla rhythms. </p>
<p>The incident was reported by PTI.</p>
<h2><strong>Zakir's father uttered tabla rhythms instead of azaan</strong></h2>
<p>Zakir told the news agency about eight years ago that his father Alla Rakha, whispered the musical instrument’s rhythm in his ears. </p>
<p>At the time, Zakir said, “I was brought home and handed over to my dad in his arms. The tradition was that the father is supposed to recite a prayer in the baby's ear, welcoming the baby and saying some good words. So he takes me in his arms, puts his lips to my ear and recites the tabla rhythms into my ears."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jamie-foxx-sufferers-injuries-after-glass-was-thrown-at-him-during-birthday-dinner-784152">Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner</a></strong></p>
<p>He continued, "My mother was livid. She said, 'What are you doing? You're supposed to say, you know, prayers, not rhythms'. And he said, but these are my prayers. This is how I pray. He said, ‘I am the worshipper of Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesh’. This was a devout Muslim talking. He said this is the knowledge he got from his teachers and wanted to pass it on to his son."</p>
<h2><strong>About Zakir Hussain</strong></h2>
<p>The table maestro <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-passes-away-at-73-confirms-family-784235">died at a San Francisco</a> hospital due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.</p>
<p>His family confirmed the news after media reports earlier suggested that the iconic performer was battling for life. </p>
<p>Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai.</p>
<p>He had his early education at St Michael’s School in Mahim and graduated from St Xavier’s College. </p>
<p>He was the recipient of India's top civilian honours: the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Vibhushan in 2023.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain no more: He died at the age of 73 due to a rare lung disease. 



New Delhi Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rare gem of Indian classical music, died at the age of 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. The late tabla maestro was a known face not just in India but enjoyed global fame due to his talent. But Zakir owed his talent to his father who was a devout worshipper of Goddess Saraswati. Once, during an interview, Zakir Hussain remembered how his father on his birth, did not utter azaan (Muslims’ call to prayer as is the norm) but tabla rhythms. The incident was reported by PTI. Zakir's father uttered tabla rhythms instead of azaan Zakir told the news agency about eight years ago that his father Alla Rakha, whispered the musical instrument’s rhythm in his ears. At the time, Zakir said, “I was brought home and handed over to my dad in his arms. The tradition was that the father is supposed to recite a prayer in the baby's ear, welcoming the baby and saying some good words. So he takes me in his arms, puts his lips to my ear and recites the tabla rhythms into my ears." Also read: Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner He continued, "My mother was livid. She said, 'What are you doing? You're supposed to say, you know, prayers, not rhythms'. And he said, but these are my prayers. This is how I pray. He said, ‘I am the worshipper of Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesh’. This was a devout Muslim talking. He said this is the knowledge he got from his teachers and wanted to pass it on to his son." About Zakir Hussain The table maestro died at a San Francisco hospital due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. His family confirmed the news after media reports earlier suggested that the iconic performer was battling for life. Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai. He had his early education at St Michael’s School in Mahim and graduated from St Xavier’s College. He was the recipient of India's top civilian honours: the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Zakir Hussain's father All Rakha recited tabla rhythms in his ears on his birth and not azaan

<p>Tributes have been pouring&nbsp;in for Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, who&nbsp;passed&nbsp;away at 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.</p>

<p>"His prolific work as a teacher, mentor and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians. He hoped to inspire the next generation to go further. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time," said his family in a statement confirming his death.</p>

<p>The saddening news came&nbsp;hours after the news of his hospitalisation came. On Sunday (Dec 15), several reports claimed that&nbsp;he had passed away. However, the reports were refuted&nbsp;by some of his family members,&nbsp;who confirmed that he was alive but his condition was ‘critical’. His family confirmed the death hours later.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ustad-zakir-hussain-no-more-there-will-never-be-another-one-like-him-784282">Ustad Zakir Hussain no more: There will never be another one like him</a></p>

<p>The singer had been admitted to a hospital in San Francisco, USA, due to serious health issues.</p>

<p>Hussain's departure has left a huge void in the country's art and music. In his career spanning over decades,&nbsp;the legend had made waves with his exceptional rhythms and tabla beats.</p>

<p>In addition to this,&nbsp;he has also been hailed for popularising Indian classical music on the global stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hussain's death left his&nbsp;fans and followers in a state of grief. Soon after the news broke, condolences started pouring in from across the globe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/zakir-hussains-father-all-rakha-recited-table-rhythms-in-his-ears-on-his-birth-and-not-azaan-784265">Zakir Hussain's father All Rakha recited tabla rhythms in his ears on his birth and not azaan</a></p>

<p>Several celebrities and politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi,&nbsp;music composer Ricky Kej, actor Kamal Haasan, and director Hansal Mehta, among others, paid tribute to the&nbsp;Grammy Award winner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calling Hussain&nbsp;''a true genius'',&nbsp;PM Modi wrote in a post shared on X, ''Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm. Through this, he seamlessly blended Indian classical traditions with global music, thus becoming an icon of cultural unity.''</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm.…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1868544110367560025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sharing a picture of Hussain, Kej wrote on X, ''Shocked, deeply saddened and devastated by the passing-on of the legend Ustad Zakir Hussain. One of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for his immense humility, approachable nature, and for being responsible for the careers of numerous musicians, who are now forces to reckon with themselves. He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge and always shared and encouraged the entire music community through collaborations and his actions. His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations. He left us too soon.''</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shocked, deeply saddened and devastated by the passing-on of the legend Ustad Zakir Hussain <a href="https://twitter.com/ZakirHtabla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZakirHtabla</a>. One of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for his immense humility, approachable nature,… <a href="https://t.co/FxDeScxrvt">pic.twitter.com/FxDeScxrvt</a></p>
— Ricky Kej (@rickykej) <a href="https://twitter.com/rickykej/status/1868456862276018556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away a few hours ago. Goodbye Ustadji. The man who made the tabla sexy, who brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront is gone. Deepest condolences to his family, fans and students around the globe. <a href="https://t.co/JiObDgjtjs">pic.twitter.com/JiObDgjtjs</a></p>
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) <a href="https://twitter.com/mehtahansal/status/1868486356252631163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ustad Zakir Hussain was instrumental in popularising Indian music across the globe, serving as a beacon of India’s rich musical heritage. A true custodian of classical traditions, his contributions to the arts remain unparalleled. His passing is a monumental loss to culture and… <a href="https://t.co/BG9Wz43mw4">pic.twitter.com/BG9Wz43mw4</a></p>
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) <a href="https://twitter.com/pinarayivijayan/status/1868471427826868383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zakir Bhai ! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art.<br />
Goodbye and Thank you.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZakirHussain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZakirHussain</a> <a href="https://t.co/ln1cmID5LV">pic.twitter.com/ln1cmID5LV</a></p>
— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/1868490381605888510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">महान तबला वादक उस्ताद ज़ाकिर हुसैन जी के निधन का समाचार बेहद दुखद है।<br />
<br />
उनका जाना संगीत जगत के लिए बड़ी क्षति है। इस दुख की घड़ी में मेरी संवेदनाएं उनके परिवार और प्रशंसकों के साथ हैं।<br />
<br />
उस्ताद ज़ाकिर हुसैन जी अपनी कला की ऐसी विरासत छोड़ गए हैं, जो हमेशा हमारी यादों में जीवित… <a href="https://t.co/2lVcgf3ESv">pic.twitter.com/2lVcgf3ESv</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1868550792782758284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The curtains have fallen, but the beats will continue to echo in our hearts forever.<br />
<br />
If his hands delivered the rhythms, his smiling face and humble persona conveyed a melody - always respectful to everyone around him, putting them at ease.<br />
<br />
Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain… <a href="https://t.co/a4gTg4mTNw">pic.twitter.com/a4gTg4mTNw</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1868535908594864468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Tributes have been pouring in for Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, who passed away at 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. "His prolific work as a teacher, mentor and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians.

Tributes have been pouring in for Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, who passed away at 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. "His prolific work as a teacher, mentor and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians. He hoped to inspire the next generation to go further. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time," said his family in a statement confirming his death. The saddening news came hours after the news of his hospitalisation came. On Sunday (Dec 15), several reports claimed that he had passed away. However, the reports were refuted by some of his family members, who confirmed that he was alive but his condition was ‘critical’. His family confirmed the death hours later. Also read: Ustad Zakir Hussain no more: There will never be another one like him The singer had been admitted to a hospital in San Francisco, USA, due to serious health issues. Hussain's departure has left a huge void in the country's art and music. In his career spanning over decades, the legend had made waves with his exceptional rhythms and tabla beats. In addition to this, he has also been hailed for popularising Indian classical music on the global stage. Hussain's death left his fans and followers in a state of grief. Soon after the news broke, condolences started pouring in from across the globe. Also read: Zakir Hussain's father All Rakha recited tabla rhythms in his ears on his birth and not azaan Several celebrities and politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, music composer Ricky Kej, actor Kamal Haasan, and director Hansal Mehta, among others, paid tribute to the Grammy Award winner. Calling Hussain ''a true genius'', PM Modi wrote in a post shared on X, ''Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm. Through this, he seamlessly blended Indian classical traditions with global music, thus becoming an icon of cultural unity.'' Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm.… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2024 × Sharing a picture of Hussain, Kej wrote on X, ''Shocked, deeply saddened and devastated by the passing-on of the legend Ustad Zakir Hussain. One of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for his immense humility, approachable nature, and for being responsible for the careers of numerous musicians, who are now forces to reckon with themselves. He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge and always shared and encouraged the entire music community through collaborations and his actions. His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations. He left us too soon.'' Shocked, deeply saddened and devastated by the passing-on of the legend Ustad Zakir Hussain @ZakirHtabla. One of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for his immense humility, approachable nature,… pic.twitter.com/FxDeScxrvt — Ricky Kej (@rickykej) December 16, 2024 × The maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away a few hours ago. Goodbye Ustadji. The man who made the tabla sexy, who brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront is gone. Deepest condolences to his family, fans and students around the globe. pic.twitter.com/JiObDgjtjs — Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) December 16, 2024 × Ustad Zakir Hussain was instrumental in popularising Indian music across the globe, serving as a beacon of India’s rich musical heritage. A true custodian of classical traditions, his contributions to the arts remain unparalleled. His passing is a monumental loss to culture and… pic.twitter.com/BG9Wz43mw4 — Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) December 16, 2024 × Zakir Bhai ! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art. Goodbye and Thank you.#ZakirHussain pic.twitter.com/ln1cmID5LV — Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) December 16, 2024 × महान तबला वादक उस्ताद ज़ाकिर हुसैन जी के निधन का समाचार बेहद दुखद है। उनका जाना संगीत जगत के लिए बड़ी क्षति है। इस दुख की घड़ी में मेरी संवेदनाएं उनके परिवार और प्रशंसकों के साथ हैं। उस्ताद ज़ाकिर हुसैन जी अपनी कला की ऐसी विरासत छोड़ गए हैं, जो हमेशा हमारी यादों में जीवित… pic.twitter.com/2lVcgf3ESv — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 16, 2024 × The curtains have fallen, but the beats will continue to echo in our hearts forever. If his hands delivered the rhythms, his smiling face and humble persona conveyed a melody - always respectful to everyone around him, putting them at ease. Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain… pic.twitter.com/a4gTg4mTNw — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 16, 2024 ×

'His legacy will live on forever': PM Modi, Kamal Haasan and others pay tribute to Zakir Hussain

<p>Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rare gem of Indian classical music, died at the age of 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The late tabla maestro was a known face not just in India but enjoyed global fame due to his talent. But Zakir owed his talent to his father who was a devout worshipper of Goddess Saraswati. Once, during an interview, Zakir Hussain remembered how his father on his birth, did not utter azaan (Muslims’ call to prayer as is the norm) but tabla rhythms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident was reported by PTI.</p>

<h2><strong>Zakir's father uttered tabla rhythms instead of azaan</strong></h2>

<p>Zakir told the news agency about eight years ago that his father Alla Rakha, whispered the musical instrument’s rhythm in his ears.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, Zakir said, “I was brought home and handed over to my dad in his arms. The tradition was that the father is supposed to recite a prayer in the baby's ear, welcoming the baby and saying some good words. So he takes me in his arms, puts his lips to my ear and recites the tabla rhythms into my ears."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jamie-foxx-sufferers-injuries-after-glass-was-thrown-at-him-during-birthday-dinner-784152">Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner</a></strong></p>

<p>He continued, "My mother was livid. She said, 'What are you doing? You're supposed to say, you know, prayers, not rhythms'. And he said, but these are my prayers. This is how I pray. He said, ‘I am the worshipper of Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesh’. This was a devout Muslim talking. He said this is the knowledge he got from his teachers and wanted to pass it on to his son."</p>

<h2><strong>About Zakir Hussain</strong></h2>

<p>The table maestro <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-passes-away-at-73-confirms-family-784235">died at a San Francisco</a> hospital due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.</p>

<p>His family confirmed the news after media reports earlier suggested that the iconic performer was battling for life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai.</p>

<p>He had his early education at St Michael’s School in Mahim and graduated from St Xavier’s College.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was the recipient of India's top civilian honours: the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Vibhushan in 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rare gem of Indian classical music, died at the age of 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease.

Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rare gem of Indian classical music, died at the age of 73 due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. The late tabla maestro was a known face not just in India but enjoyed global fame due to his talent. But Zakir owed his talent to his father who was a devout worshipper of Goddess Saraswati. Once, during an interview, Zakir Hussain remembered how his father on his birth, did not utter azaan (Muslims’ call to prayer as is the norm) but tabla rhythms. The incident was reported by PTI. Zakir's father uttered tabla rhythms instead of azaan Zakir told the news agency about eight years ago that his father Alla Rakha, whispered the musical instrument’s rhythm in his ears. At the time, Zakir said, “I was brought home and handed over to my dad in his arms. The tradition was that the father is supposed to recite a prayer in the baby's ear, welcoming the baby and saying some good words. So he takes me in his arms, puts his lips to my ear and recites the tabla rhythms into my ears." Also read: Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner He continued, "My mother was livid. She said, 'What are you doing? You're supposed to say, you know, prayers, not rhythms'. And he said, but these are my prayers. This is how I pray. He said, ‘I am the worshipper of Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesh’. This was a devout Muslim talking. He said this is the knowledge he got from his teachers and wanted to pass it on to his son." About Zakir Hussain The table maestro died at a San Francisco hospital due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. His family confirmed the news after media reports earlier suggested that the iconic performer was battling for life. Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai. He had his early education at St Michael’s School in Mahim and graduated from St Xavier’s College. He was the recipient of India's top civilian honours: the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)