Legendary Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain Dies

Renowned tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, celebrated for his magical rhythms, has passed away at the age of 73. He breathed his last in a San Francisco hospital after battling Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, a rare lung condition. He had been hospitalized for the past two weeks due to deteriorating health.

Throughout his illustrious career, Zakir Hussain captivated global audiences and earned numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards. Though his tabla has fallen silent, his music and legacy will continue to inspire generations of music lovers.

A Childhood Love for Cricket

Few know that Zakir Hussain had a deep passion for cricket as a child. However, this hobby often clashed with the aspirations his father, the legendary tabla virtuoso Ustad Allah Rakha, had for him.

In an interview with Doordarshan, Zakir shared a memorable incident from his childhood. He recalled how his father scolded him for playing cricket, warning him about the risks of injuring his fingers. “If you hurt your fingers while playing cricket, how will you play the tabla?” his father had said. This advice eventually led Zakir to give up cricket and fully dedicate himself to mastering the tabla—a decision that shaped him into one of the greatest musicians of all time.

A Timeless Legacy

Born with immense talent and nurtured under his father’s guidance, Zakir Hussain became a global icon in Indian classical music. His artistry transcended borders, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rhythm and melody. Though he is no longer with us, his music will forever echo in the hearts of his admirers.