December 16, 2024: The world of music has lost one of its greatest maestros, as renowned tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain passed away on Monday at the age of 73. Hussain, who had been battling complications arising from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, died in a San Francisco hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for the past two weeks. His condition had worsened recently, and he was transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU).
In a statement, Hussain's family confirmed the news of his passing. His sister, Khurshid Aulia, shared that he died "very peacefully" after the ventilation machine was switched off, at approximately 4 p.m. San Francisco time.
Zakir Hussain's death marks the end of an era for Indian classical music, as the tabla legend leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, he was the son of the legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha. Hussain rose to international fame with his groundbreaking work that fused Indian classical music with global genres, particularly through his collaboration with Western musicians.
His 1973 project with guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L. Shankar, and percussionist T.H. 'Vikku' Vinayakram introduced the world to a new fusion of Indian classical music and jazz, marking a milestone in the global acceptance of Indian music. Hussain went on to collaborate with iconic figures from both the East and West, including Ravi Shankar, Ali Akbar Khan, Yo-Yo Ma, Bela Fleck, Charles Lloyd, and George Harrison, among others.
Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned more than six decades, Hussain’s contributions to music earned him global acclaim. His exceptional virtuosity was honored with numerous prestigious awards, including four Grammy Awards, with three received just this year at the 66th Grammy Awards ceremony.
His accolades also included India's highest civilian honors: the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, recognizing his immense influence and contribution to Indian and global music.
Zakir Hussain is survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola and their two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. The family expressed that he "leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations to come."
As the news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the world. Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej remembered Hussain for his "immense humility, approachable nature," and contributions to both Indian classical music and global music culture.
Hussain's departure is a profound loss to the world of music, but his extraordinary legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers around the globe for years to come.