Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the US on Sunday, December 15. The musician was hospitalised in the US due to serious health concerns.
Earlier, news agency PTI reported quoting his close friend and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia that Hussain was admitted to the ICU following heart-related problems. A source had also mentioned that the 73-year-old musician had been facing blood pressure issues. Hussain was receiving treatment at the hospital for a heart-related issue over the past week.
An official statement from the Zakir Hussain’s family is still awaited. Zakir Hussain, son of the legendary tabla virtuoso Ustad Alla Rakha Khan, was a renowned figure in both Indian and global music. He began his tabla journey at the age of seven and was already performing across India by 12. Throughout his career, he made remarkable contributions to both Indian classical and world music.
He composed and performed for numerous acclaimed Indian and international films, showcasing his exceptional tabla skills. About four decades ago, he relocated to San Francisco with his family, where he continued to play a pivotal role in the global music scene.
The tabla maestro received numerous national and international accolades throughout his distinguished career. The Government of India awarded him prestigious civilian honors, including the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. In 1990, he was also honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India’s highest recognition in music.
