Zakir Hussain’s tabla: The sound that took Indian classical music to the world

Ustad Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla player who made Indian classical music famous worldwide, has passed away. Known as a cultural icon, he connected Indian music with the world through his unmatched talent and collaborations.

Innovator and cultural bridge
In the 1970s, Zakir Hussain co-founded the fusion band Shakti with guitarist John McLaughlin. Their music combined Indian classical rhythms with Western jazz, creating a new style that amazed audiences globally. This groundbreaking work showed how Indian classical music could blend beautifully with other styles.

Hussain also worked with international legends like Charles Lloyd and George Harrison. His Grammy-winning album Planet Drum, made with Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, introduced Indian rhythms to the global stage.

While exploring fusion, Hussain stayed true to Indian classical roots. He played alongside greats like Pandit Shivkumar Sharma and Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, showcasing the beauty of traditional Indian music. He also transformed the tabla from a supporting instrument to a solo star.

Reaching the next generation
Hussain used platforms like YouTube and social media to share his music and teachings with young people. His online lessons and collaborations with modern artists kept Indian classical music fresh and exciting in the digital era.

As a teacher, he ensured the art of tabla playing would live on by teaching at schools like the Ali Akbar College of Music and holding workshops worldwide.