Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away in San Francisco, USA. His family has confirmed the sad news and shared that he “passed away peacefully” on December 16. As per reports, he has been in the hospital for over two weeks and has been critical since Sunday night. Condolences and heartfelt tributes poured all over social media after his demise was announced.
Legendary Zakir Hussain Passes Away
Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States. After much speculation, the tabla virtuoso’s family released a statement to confirm the news. According to NDTV, due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the 4-time Grammy winner lost his life. As per reports, he passed away after the ventilation machine was switched off at 4 PM (San Francisco time).
In the statement released by the family, they said, “He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations to come.”
Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, to renowned tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha. He started playing tabla at the young age of seven. Over the decades, has worked with many famous international and Indian artists including Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison. He was awarded with Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.
Condolences Pour In For The Tabla Maestro
Since the news of Zakir Hussain’s demise broke out, condolences have been pouring in for the legendary tabla master. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his condolences to the family and remember his “iconic performances and soulful compositions.” Many celebrities also shared their tributes on social media.
Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2024
A rhythm fell silent today.
Pained by the demise of the tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. Blessed with musical genius, Hussain Ji crafted masterpieces that transcended the borders of language and culture by evoking the emotions behind rhythms. His music will remain as a…— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 16, 2024
Deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely death of Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned maestro and one of the greatest tabla players of all times. This is a huge loss for the country and his millions of admirers across the planet.
I convey my sincere condolences to the family,…
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) December 16, 2024
Zakir Bhai ! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art.
Goodbye and Thank you.#ZakirHussain pic.twitter.com/ln1cmID5LV— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) December 16, 2024
Very pained to know about the sad demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain Saab. He was truly a treasure for our country’s musical heritage. Om Shanti 🙏 pic.twitter.com/a5TWDMymfZ
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) December 16, 2024
The irreparable loss of Zakir Hussain Sahab is a devastating blow to India and the global music community.
Sir, Your music was a gift, a treasure that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
Your legacy will live on. May your soul rest in eternal glory,… pic.twitter.com/UtH8OUKKtX— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) December 15, 2024
The curtains have fallen, but the beats will continue to echo in our hearts forever.
If his hands delivered the rhythms, his smiling face and humble persona conveyed a melody – always respectful to everyone around him, putting them at ease.
Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain… pic.twitter.com/a4gTg4mTNw
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 16, 2024
India has lost its cultural rhythm keeper 😢 Rest in peace maestro 🙏#ZakirHussain pic.twitter.com/6ku5Bn0xwE
— Randeep Hooda (@RandeepHooda) December 16, 2024
The maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away a few hours ago. Goodbye Ustadji. The man who made the tabla sexy, who brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront is gone. Deepest condolences to his family, fans and students around the globe. pic.twitter.com/JiObDgjtjs
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) December 16, 2024
Also Read: Rovaniemi, Lapland’s Capital Famed To Be Santa’s Village, Is Now Struggling With Overtourism
Zakir Hussain left a legacy behind that that the nation can never forget. We lost a gem today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. Rest in peace, sir!
Cover Image Courtesy: Flickr
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: December 16, 2024 12:53 PM