Legendary Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 73

Tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, fondly known as Ustaad, passed away at the age of 73 in a U.S. hospital due to heart-related issues. His illustrious career spanned over six decades, during which he became a global ambassador of Indian classical music and a revered figure in the world of fusion.

Celebrated Career and Global Recognition

Born on March 9, 1951, Hussain was the son of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha. He was a trailblazer in Indian classical music, blending traditional tabla rhythms with genres like jazz and world music. Hussain’s iconic 1973 collaboration with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L. Shankar, and percussionist T.H. 'Vikku' Vinayakram through the band Shakti brought Indian classical fusion to a global audience. The group won a Grammy Award earlier this year, adding to the maestro’s collection of four other Grammys.

Hussain also collaborated with internationally acclaimed artists like Yo-Yo Ma, George Harrison, Bela Fleck, and Mickey Hart, introducing Indian classical music to new horizons.

National Honors and Iconic Contributions

As one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians, Zakir Hussain received numerous honors, including:

• Padma Shri (1988)
• Padma Bhushan (2002)
• Padma Vibhushan (2023)

He became a household name with the Taj Mahal Tea commercial in 1988. In this now-iconic ad, Hussain’s mastery of the tabla was celebrated with the line, "Wah Ustaad Wah," which he famously replied to with "Arre huzoor, Wah Taj boliye!" The campaign cemented his legacy not only as a musician but also as a cultural icon.

Legacy of Fusion and Inspiration

Zakir Hussain's unique ability to blend Indian classical music with global genres inspired generations of musicians worldwide. His pioneering efforts in fusion music and his collaborations remain a testament to his versatility and genius.