Indian-American tabla maestro Zakir Hussain died at the age of 73 hours after he was admitted to a San Francisco-based hospital with heart-related problems earlier in the day. Hussain, also known as ‘Ustaad’, had been suffering from blood pressure issues.
Renowned flautist Rakesh Chaurasia shared an update on the health of his close friend Hussain, also a legendary percussionist, soon after he was shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Speaking to news agency PTI, Chaurasia revealed, “He is currently unwell and has been admitted to the ICU. We are all deeply concerned about his condition”.
WHO WAS ZAKIR HUSSAIN?
Ustad Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla virtuoso who made “Wah Ustad Wah” a household expression, is a name synonymous with rhythm and grace. Honoured with all three Padma Awards, Hussain stands as a testament to India’s rich musical heritage.
Born on March 9, 1951 in a family of musicians in Mumbai, Zakir Hussain was the son of the legendary Ustad Alla Rakha Khan. Even before the first call to prayer (Azaan) reached his newborn ears, his father introduced him to the beats of the tabla.
Zakir Hussain spent his childhood in Mumbai, where the rhythm of the city blended with his innate musical genius. At just 12, he began casting his spell in the world of music with his extraordinary tabla skills. As he pursued his formal education, his art matured alongside, leading him to become an iconic figure in the music industry.
His first album, Living in the Material World, was released in 1973, marking the beginning of an illustrious journey. From 1979 to 2007, he graced numerous international festivals and albums, mesmerising audiences with the vibrant rhythms and intricate patterns of his instrument.
Over a remarkable career spanning six decades, the musician has collaborated with numerous celebrated Indian and international artists. However, it was his groundbreaking 1973 musical project alongside English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram that stood out. The collaboration blended Indian classical music with jazz, creating a fusion style that was unprecedented at the time.
