Mumbai: Renowned tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73. He was receiving treatment in San Francisco when he took his last breath. Born on 9 March 1951 in Mumbai, he was a celebrated musician who received numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan in 2023 and three Grammy Awards.
Ustad Zakir Hussain’s musical journey began early. At just 11, he performed his first concert in America. His debut album, ‘Living in the Material World,’ was released in 1973. Known for his unique talent, he would create rhythms using any flat surface, even kitchen utensils like tawa and thali.
His father, Ustad Allah Rakha Qureshi, was also a tabla player. Zakir Hussain completed his early education at St. Michael’s School in Mahim and graduated from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. His passion for music was evident from childhood as he often played tunes with his fingers on various surfaces.
Despite financial constraints during his early days, Zakir Hussain remained dedicated to his craft. He often travelled by train, sometimes sleeping on the floor with a newspaper spread out if no seat was available. He always kept his tabla close to ensure its safety.
At the age of 12, Zakir Hussain accompanied his father to a concert featuring legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. After performing on stage with his father, he received five rupees as payment. In an interview, he recalled this moment fondly, stating that those five rupees were the most valuable earnings of his life.
Zakir Hussain continued to perform globally throughout his life. In 2016, former US President Barack Obama invited him to the White House for the All-Star Global Concert. This made him the first Indian musician to receive such an honour from America.
Apart from music, Zakir Hussain ventured into acting. He debuted in the British film ‘Heat and Dust’ alongside Shashi Kapoor in 1983 and later appeared in ‘Saaz’ (1998) with Shabana Azmi as his co-star. Although offered a role in ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ (1960), his father declined it to keep him focused on music.
Zakir Hussain’s legacy extends beyond music; he left an indelible mark on both Indian and global cultural landscapes through his performances and collaborations. His contributions will be remembered by fans worldwide who cherished his artistry and dedication to music.
