The world loses its rhythm – Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passes away

The world has lost one of its greatest musical icons. Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla maestro who revolutionised Indian classical music and earned global acclaim, passed away at 73 in San Francisco due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a lung disease.

His family, in a heartfelt statement, described his legacy as “extraordinary,” with an influence that will inspire generations to come. “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 statement, shared by The Indian Express, read.

Born in Mumbai in 1951, Hussain was a prodigy who performed his first concert at the age of seven. Trained by his illustrious father, Ustad Alla Rakha Khan, Hussain not only mastered the tabla but also elevated it to new heights, transforming it from an accompaniment instrument into a globally celebrated solo art form.

Hussain’s illustrious career included four Grammy Awards and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour. Collaborating with global music legends such as Ravi Shankar, Hariprasad Chaurasia, and John McLaughlin, he transcended genres, blending Indian classical rhythms with jazz, fusion, and world music. His groundbreaking album Making Music is often hailed as one of the finest examples of cross-cultural musical collaboration. As news of his demise spread, tributes poured in from all over the world. Fellow musicians, actors, and admirers expressed their grief and shared heartfelt memories.

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