An irreplaceable legend: Tributes pour in for Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain

The passing of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain has left a void in the world of music, with tributes flooding in from across the globe. The 73-year-old tabla virtuoso is known for his unparalleled contributions to Indian classical music, his international collaborations, and his ability to bring Indian rhythms to a global audience.

He passed away on Monday, December 16 at a hospital in San Francisco, his family said in a statement. Hussain passed away due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the statement said. He had been hospitalized for two weeks and was later moved to the ICU as his condition worsened.

Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Born March 9, 1951, he was the son of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha.

Hussain has received four Grammy Awards in his career, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. The percussionist, one of India's most celebrated classical musicians, received the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Political leaders and celebrities pay tribute

From political leaders to celebrities, musicians, and fans, the tributes for Zakir Hussain poured in from all corners of the world. His remarkable talent, his legacy as a bridge between cultures, and his ability to captivate audiences with his rhythms have left an indelible mark on the world of music.

Grammy winner musician Ricky Kej remembered Hussain for his ‘immense humility, approachable nature’. "One of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for...being responsible for the careers of numerous musicians, who are now forces to reckon with themselves. He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge and always shared and encouraged the entire music community through collaborations and his actions. His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations. He left us too soon," Kej wrote on X.

Indian actor and film producer, Kamal Haasan, wrote, “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.”

American drummer Nate Smith thanked Hussain for all his music. He wrote, “one time for the legend, Zakir Hussain. rest in peace and thank you for all of the music you gave us.”

Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi paid tributes to the ‘irreplaceable legend’. "My tribute to an irreplaceable legend. The world of music will be lesser without Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his fans all around the world. My prayers, Om Shanti," she wrote in a post on X.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on X wrote, “Ustad Zakir Hussain was instrumental in popularising Indian music across the globe, serving as a beacon of India’s rich musical heritage. A true custodian of classical traditions, his contributions to the arts remain unparalleled. His passing is a monumental loss to culture and humanity. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.”

The national spokesperson for AIADMK Kovai Sathyan wrote, “Loss of words. Magnum Opus of Tabla. Ustad shall entertain heaven henceforth. Prayers.”

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote, "In the passing away of Tabla exponent, Ustad Zakir Hussain, India and the world has lost a musical genius, and a cultural ambassador who bridged borders and generations with his mesmerising rhythms. The Padma Vibhushan Tabla maestro and percussionist, gloriously took forward the legacy of his father with exceptional performances and collaborations. His numerous national and international honours are a testament to this. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends and admirers across the world." 

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta credited him for bringing an accompanying instrument to the forefront. He wrote, "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."

(With input from agencies)