Ustad Zakir Hussain, Legendary Tabla Maestro, Passes Away At 73 In San Francisco Hospital

Mumbai: The world of music has plunged into mourning with the passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain (73), the legendary tabla maestro and the eldest son of the iconic Ustad Allah Rakha on Sunday. He breathed his last at a hospital in San Francisco, USA, where he had been undergoing treatment for serious health complications.

As per reports, Ustad Zakir Hussain was hospitalised in a San Francisco hospital in USA for treatment of 'serious' health ailments. His family requested prayers for his speedy recovery.

His brother-in-law Ayub Aulia, over a phone call told journalist Pervaiz Alam, who posted this information on his official Twitter handle. He said, "Ustad Zakir Hussain, Tabla player, percussionist, composer, former actor and the son of legendary Tabla player, Ustad Allah Rakha is not well."

Harsh Goenka shared the news on his official social media account and said, "The world falls silent as the tabla loses its maestro. Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rhythmic genius who brought the soul of India to global stages, has left us. I was privileged to know him because of his connection with HMV and hear him perform at our home. His beats will echo eternally."

He further said, "He’s being treated for serious ailments in a San Francisco hospital, USA, informed his brother in law, Ayub Aulia in a phone call with me. Aulia sahab, based in London, has requested Zakir’s followers to pray for his speedy recovery."

Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was celebrated as one of the greatest tabla players in the history of Indian classical music. His unmatched talent, coupled with an ability to innovate while respecting tradition, earned him a revered place in the global music fraternity.

From his early training under the teaching of his father to performing on the world’s biggest stages, Zakir Hussain captivated audiences with his rhythmic mastery. Over his illustrious career spanning over five decades, he collaborated with legends across genres, including Pandit Ravi Shankar, John McLaughlin, and George Harrison, becoming a pioneer of fusion music.

Ustad Zakir Hussain was not only a musician but also a cultural ambassador, introducing Indian classical music to global audiences. His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, among many international honours.

The maestro is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their two daughters. Ustad Zakir Hussain’s music will continue to echo in the hearts of his admirers, a timeless testament to his genius.