Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain was laid to rest in a solemn ceremony in San Francisco on Thursday, just days after his passing at the age of 73 due to complications from a lung disease. The funeral, attended by several prominent musicians, was marked by a musical tribute led by renowned drummer Anandan Sivamani, who was joined by fellow artists in honoring the legendary musician.
Zakir Hussain, known for his mastery over the tabla and his renowned “dancing fingers,” died on Monday at a San Francisco hospital, leaving behind a legacy that has influenced music lovers worldwide. In a statement, his family expressed their deep sorrow, highlighting his extraordinary impact on global music and his peaceful passing. “He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations to come,” the family said. His sister, Khurshid Aulia, confirmed that he passed “very peacefully.”
Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. His death marks the end of an era in the world of music, as the maestro’s contributions spanned not just classical Indian music but also collaborations with international icons.
Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was the eldest son of legendary tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha. Recognized as a child prodigy, he began performing professionally at the age of 12, quickly earning recognition for his extraordinary talent. By the age of 18, he was already gracing international stages, establishing himself as one of the finest tabla players in the world.
Beyond classical music, Hussain’s collaborations transcended genres. He worked with some of the greatest names in the music world, including Beatle George Harrison, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, jazz legend Herbie Hancock, and many others. His collaborations with Western musicians brought Indian classical music to a global audience, bridging cultural gaps and creating a fusion of musical traditions.
Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned over six decades, Zakir Hussain earned numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards, with three of them received earlier this year at the 66th Grammy Awards. He was also honored with some of India’s highest civilian awards: the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023), cementing his place as a cultural icon.
The musical world will forever remember Zakir Hussain not only for his technical brilliance but also for his ability to bring joy, soul, and a sense of universality to his craft. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill, but his contributions to music will continue to inspire generations to come.
Sources By Agencies
