New Delhi
In the 1990s when only a few would listen to classical music and enjoy it as much as pop music, tabla maestro Zakir Hussain brought a welcome change. He made tabla a part of pop culture. His name became synonymous with the Indian classical musical instrument. He made tabla cool and through fusions and collaborations with other artists, helped it achieve the status that only the guitar enjoyed at one point of time. 
Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was born as the eldest son of the legendary tabla player Alla Rakha. By the age of 12, he already made his professional debut, showcasing his extraordinary talent that would soon earn him worldwide recognition. 
His loss today feels like a personal one. 
<h2>Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music</h2>
Zakir Hussain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-passes-away-at-73-confirms-family-784235">passed away at the age of 73 </a>due to complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. He had been battling with blood pressure issues which resulted in several heart issues. He was getting treatment at a hospital in San Francisco, where he breathed his last. 
Zakir Hussain was a remarkable tabla player, composer, percussionist, music producer and film actor. He was conferred Padma Vibhushan in 2023, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Shri in 1988.
The iconic star also shone at Grammy Awards. He was nominated seven times at the Grammys and won four times. In February 2024, he received three Grammys. The first Grammy win for him came in 2009 when he won in the Contemporary World Music Album category for his collaborative album Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart and Giovanni Hidalgo.
The late star was one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians.
He took tabla to mainstage globally and worked with some of the most known international faces.
Zakir’s 1973 musical project with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH 'Vikku' Vinayakram brought together Indian classical and elements of jazz in a fusion we had never heard of before.
He went on to work with western artists like Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison. 
Also read: <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>
Ustad Zakir Hussain became a household name when in 1988 he was roped in as the face of the Taj Mahal Tea brand.
The TV commercial now regarded as a classic had him sipping on the tea as a voiceover praises his craft and says, "Wah ustad, wah!" to which the maestro responds "Arre huzoor, wah Taj boliye!"
<h2>We will miss you Ustad Zakir Hussain</h2>
His death has left the global music community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from fans, artists, and political leaders alike.
India lost a gem today. There will truly never be another Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music like him.

Zakir Hussain died at the age of 73 due to a rare lung disease. He was being treated in a San Francisco hospital. 



New Delhi In the 1990s when only a few would listen to classical music and enjoy it as much as pop music, tabla maestro Zakir Hussain brought a welcome change. He made tabla a part of pop culture. His name became synonymous with the Indian classical musical instrument. He made tabla cool and through fusions and collaborations with other artists, helped it achieve the status that only the guitar enjoyed at one point of time. Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was born as the eldest son of the legendary tabla player Alla Rakha. By the age of 12, he already made his professional debut, showcasing his extraordinary talent that would soon earn him worldwide recognition. His loss today feels like a personal one. Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 due to complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. He had been battling with blood pressure issues which resulted in several heart issues. He was getting treatment at a hospital in San Francisco, where he breathed his last. Zakir Hussain was a remarkable tabla player, composer, percussionist, music producer and film actor. He was conferred Padma Vibhushan in 2023, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Shri in 1988. The iconic star also shone at Grammy Awards. He was nominated seven times at the Grammys and won four times. In February 2024, he received three Grammys. The first Grammy win for him came in 2009 when he won in the Contemporary World Music Album category for his collaborative album Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart and Giovanni Hidalgo. The late star was one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians. He took tabla to mainstage globally and worked with some of the most known international faces. Zakir’s 1973 musical project with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH 'Vikku' Vinayakram brought together Indian classical and elements of jazz in a fusion we had never heard of before. He went on to work with western artists like Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison. Also read: Zakir Hussain's father All Rakha recited tabla rhythms in his ears on his birth and not azaan Ustad Zakir Hussain became a household name when in 1988 he was roped in as the face of the Taj Mahal Tea brand. The TV commercial now regarded as a classic had him sipping on the tea as a voiceover praises his craft and says, "Wah ustad, wah!" to which the maestro responds "Arre huzoor, wah Taj boliye!" We will miss you Ustad Zakir Hussain His death has left the global music community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from fans, artists, and political leaders alike. India lost a gem today. There will truly never be another Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music like him.

Ustad Zakir Hussain no more: There will never be another one like him

San Francisco, United States
Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at a hospital in San Francisco, his family confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Hussain, 73, died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease, the family said in a statement, as reported by news agency PTI.
"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.
The tabla maestro had been hospitalised for the past two weeks and was later moved to the ICU as his condition worsened.
Speaking to PTI, Hussain's sister Khurshid Aulia said, "He passed away very peacefully after the ventilation machine was switched off. This was 4 pm San Francisco time."
Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/legendary-tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-hospitalised-due-to-serious-ailments-in-san-francisco-784193">Legendary Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain hospitalised in San Francisco due to serious ailments</a>
<h2>Career and early life </h2>
Born on 9 March 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha. 
Considered the greatest tabla player of his generation, Zakir Hussain's illustrious career spanned six decades and earned him a number of national and international accolades, including four Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year.
He was also the recipient of Indian civilian honours Padma Shri (1988), the Padma Bhushan (2002) and the Padma Vibhushan (2023).
<h2>Condolences and tributes pour in</h2>
As the news of his demise spread, condolences started pouring in on social media.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-big-b-pays-tribute-to-raj-kapoors-incredible-showmanship-awara-a-film-that-is-etched-in-my-mind-784137">Big B pays tribute to Raj Kapoor's 'incredible showmanship', says 'Awara is etched in my mind'</a>
Grammy winner musician Ricky Kej noted Hussain was "one of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced" and remembered him for his "immense humility, approachable nature".
"Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known 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," Kej wrote on X.
American drummer Nate Smith thanked Hussain for "all of the music you gave us".
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one time for the legend, Zakir Hussain.
rest in peace and thank you for all of the music you gave us. <a href="https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc">https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc</a>
— Nate Smith (@natesmithdrums) <a href="https://twitter.com/natesmithdrums/status/1868459456062976206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi paid tribute to the "irreplaceable legend" and said:  "The world of music will be lesser without Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his fans all around the world. My prayers, Om Shanti." 
(With inputs from agencies)

Hussain, 73, died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease, the family said in a statement



San Francisco, United States Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at a hospital in San Francisco, his family confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Hussain, 73, died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease, the family said in a statement, as reported by news agency PTI. "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. The tabla maestro had been hospitalised for the past two weeks and was later moved to the ICU as his condition worsened. Speaking to PTI, Hussain's sister Khurshid Aulia said, "He passed away very peacefully after the ventilation machine was switched off. This was 4 pm San Francisco time." Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Also read | Legendary Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain hospitalised in San Francisco due to serious ailments Career and early life Born on 9 March 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha. Considered the greatest tabla player of his generation, Zakir Hussain's illustrious career spanned six decades and earned him a number of national and international accolades, including four Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. He was also the recipient of Indian civilian honours Padma Shri (1988), the Padma Bhushan (2002) and the Padma Vibhushan (2023). Condolences and tributes pour in As the news of his demise spread, condolences started pouring in on social media. Also read | Big B pays tribute to Raj Kapoor's 'incredible showmanship', says 'Awara is etched in my mind' Grammy winner musician Ricky Kej noted Hussain was "one of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced" and remembered him for his "immense humility, approachable nature". "Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known 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," Kej wrote on X. American drummer Nate Smith thanked Hussain for "all of the music you gave us". one time for the legend, Zakir Hussain. rest in peace and thank you for all of the music you gave us. https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc — Nate Smith (@natesmithdrums) December 16, 2024 × Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi paid tribute to the "irreplaceable legend" and said: "The world of music will be lesser without Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his fans all around the world. My prayers, Om Shanti." (With inputs from agencies)

Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passes away at 73, confirms family

In the 1990s when only a few would listen to classical music and enjoy it as much as pop music, tabla maestro Zakir Hussain brought a welcome change. He made tabla a part of pop culture. His name became synonymous with the Indian classical musical instrument. He made tabla cool and through fusions and collaborations with other artists, helped it achieve the status that only the guitar enjoyed at one point of time.&nbsp;

Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was born as the eldest son of the legendary tabla player Alla Rakha. By the age of 12, he already made his professional debut, showcasing his extraordinary talent that would soon earn him worldwide recognition.&nbsp;

His loss today feels like a personal one.&nbsp;

<h2>Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music</h2>

Zakir Hussain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-passes-away-at-73-confirms-family-784235">passed away at the age of 73 </a>due to complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. He had been battling with blood pressure issues which resulted in several heart issues. He was getting treatment at a hospital in San Francisco, where he breathed his last.&nbsp;

Zakir Hussain was a remarkable tabla player, composer, percussionist, music producer and film actor. He was conferred Padma Vibhushan in 2023, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Shri in 1988.

The iconic star also shone at Grammy Awards. He was nominated seven times at the Grammys and won four times. In February 2024, he received three Grammys. The first Grammy win for him came in 2009 when he won in the Contemporary World Music Album category for his collaborative album Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart and Giovanni Hidalgo.

The late star was one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians.

He took tabla to mainstage globally and worked with some of the most known international faces.

Zakir’s 1973 musical project with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH 'Vikku' Vinayakram brought together Indian classical and elements of jazz in a fusion we had never heard of before.

He went on to work with western artists like Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<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>

Ustad Zakir Hussain became a household name when in 1988 he was roped in as the face of the Taj Mahal Tea brand.

The TV commercial now regarded as a classic had him sipping on the tea as a voiceover praises his craft and says, "Wah ustad, wah!" to which the maestro responds "Arre huzoor, wah Taj boliye!"

<h2>We will miss you Ustad Zakir Hussain</h2>

His death has left the global music community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from fans, artists, and political leaders alike.

India lost a gem today. There will truly never be another Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music like him.&nbsp;

In the 1990s when only a few would listen to classical music and enjoy it as much as pop music, tabla maestro Zakir Hussain brought a welcome change. He made tabla a part of pop culture.

In the 1990s when only a few would listen to classical music and enjoy it as much as pop music, tabla maestro Zakir Hussain brought a welcome change. He made tabla a part of pop culture. His name became synonymous with the Indian classical musical instrument. He made tabla cool and through fusions and collaborations with other artists, helped it achieve the status that only the guitar enjoyed at one point of time. Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was born as the eldest son of the legendary tabla player Alla Rakha. By the age of 12, he already made his professional debut, showcasing his extraordinary talent that would soon earn him worldwide recognition. His loss today feels like a personal one. Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 due to complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease. He had been battling with blood pressure issues which resulted in several heart issues. He was getting treatment at a hospital in San Francisco, where he breathed his last. Zakir Hussain was a remarkable tabla player, composer, percussionist, music producer and film actor. He was conferred Padma Vibhushan in 2023, Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Shri in 1988. The iconic star also shone at Grammy Awards. He was nominated seven times at the Grammys and won four times. In February 2024, he received three Grammys. The first Grammy win for him came in 2009 when he won in the Contemporary World Music Album category for his collaborative album Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart and Giovanni Hidalgo. The late star was one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians. He took tabla to mainstage globally and worked with some of the most known international faces. Zakir’s 1973 musical project with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH 'Vikku' Vinayakram brought together Indian classical and elements of jazz in a fusion we had never heard of before. He went on to work with western artists like Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison. Also read: Zakir Hussain's father All Rakha recited tabla rhythms in his ears on his birth and not azaan Ustad Zakir Hussain became a household name when in 1988 he was roped in as the face of the Taj Mahal Tea brand. The TV commercial now regarded as a classic had him sipping on the tea as a voiceover praises his craft and says, "Wah ustad, wah!" to which the maestro responds "Arre huzoor, wah Taj boliye!" We will miss you Ustad Zakir Hussain His death has left the global music community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from fans, artists, and political leaders alike. India lost a gem today. There will truly never be another Zakir Hussain, a global ambassador for Indian classical music like him.

Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at a hospital in San Francisco, his family confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Hussain, 73, died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease, the family said in a statement, as reported by news agency PTI.

"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.

The tabla maestro had been hospitalised for the past two weeks and was later moved to the ICU as his condition worsened.

Speaking to PTI, Hussain's sister Khurshid Aulia said,&nbsp;"He passed away very peacefully after the ventilation machine was switched off. This was 4 pm San Francisco time."

Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/legendary-tabla-maestro-zakir-hussain-hospitalised-due-to-serious-ailments-in-san-francisco-784193">Legendary Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain hospitalised in San Francisco due to serious ailments</a>

<h2>Career and early life&nbsp;</h2>

Born on 9 March 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha.&nbsp;

Considered the greatest tabla player of his generation, Zakir Hussain's illustrious career spanned six decades and earned him a number of national and international accolades, including four Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year.

He was also the recipient of Indian civilian honours&nbsp;Padma Shri (1988), the Padma Bhushan (2002) and the Padma Vibhushan (2023).

<h2>Condolences and tributes pour in</h2>

As the news of his demise spread, condolences started pouring in on social media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-big-b-pays-tribute-to-raj-kapoors-incredible-showmanship-awara-a-film-that-is-etched-in-my-mind-784137">Big B pays tribute to Raj Kapoor's 'incredible showmanship', says 'Awara is etched in my mind'</a>

Grammy winner musician Ricky Kej noted Hussain was "one of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced" and remembered him for his "immense humility, approachable nature".

"Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known 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," Kej wrote on X.

American drummer Nate Smith thanked Hussain for "all of the music you gave us".

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one time for the legend, Zakir Hussain. 
 
rest in peace and thank you for all of the music you gave us. <a href="https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc">https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc</a>
— Nate Smith (@natesmithdrums) <a href="https://twitter.com/natesmithdrums/status/1868459456062976206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi paid tribute to the "irreplaceable legend" and said:&nbsp; "The world of music will be lesser without Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his fans all around the world. My prayers, Om Shanti."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at a hospital in San Francisco, his family confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Hussain, 73, died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease, the family said in a statement, as reported by news agency PTI.

Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at a hospital in San Francisco, his family confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Hussain, 73, died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — a rare lung disease, the family said in a statement, as reported by news agency PTI. "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. The tabla maestro had been hospitalised for the past two weeks and was later moved to the ICU as his condition worsened. Speaking to PTI, Hussain's sister Khurshid Aulia said, "He passed away very peacefully after the ventilation machine was switched off. This was 4 pm San Francisco time." Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Also read | Legendary Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain hospitalised in San Francisco due to serious ailments Career and early life Born on 9 March 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha. Considered the greatest tabla player of his generation, Zakir Hussain's illustrious career spanned six decades and earned him a number of national and international accolades, including four Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. He was also the recipient of Indian civilian honours Padma Shri (1988), the Padma Bhushan (2002) and the Padma Vibhushan (2023). Condolences and tributes pour in As the news of his demise spread, condolences started pouring in on social media. Also read | Big B pays tribute to Raj Kapoor's 'incredible showmanship', says 'Awara is etched in my mind' Grammy winner musician Ricky Kej noted Hussain was "one of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced" and remembered him for his "immense humility, approachable nature". "Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known 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," Kej wrote on X. American drummer Nate Smith thanked Hussain for "all of the music you gave us". one time for the legend, Zakir Hussain. rest in peace and thank you for all of the music you gave us. https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc — Nate Smith (@natesmithdrums) December 16, 2024 × Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi paid tribute to the "irreplaceable legend" and said: "The world of music will be lesser without Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his fans all around the world. My prayers, Om Shanti." (With inputs from agencies)