Zakir Hussain, one of India’s most esteemed classical musicians renowned for transcending genres and introducing the tabla to global audiences, passed away on Sunday at the age of 73.
According to a family statement, the Indian classical music luminary succumbed to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease, at a hospital in San Francisco.
The statement read, “His prolific work as a teacher, mentor and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians.
“He hoped to inspire the next generation to go further. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time.”
Hussain was the most recognisable exponent of the tabla, a pair of hand drums that serve as the primary percussion instrument in Indian classical music.
Regarded as the finest tabla player of his generation, Hussain’s six-decade career included collaborations with renowned artists such as singer-songwriter George Harrison, jazz saxophonist Charles Lloyd, drummer Mickey Hart, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
Born in Mumbai in 1951, Hussain was the son of legendary tabla artist Alla Rakha and was taught the instrument by his father at the age of seven. A child prodigy, he began touring at age twelve and performed alongside India’s classical music legends during his teenage years.
In 1973, Hussain co-founded the Indian jazz fusion band “Shakti” with jazz guitarist John McLaughlin. The band’s acoustic fusion music, which blended Indian music with jazz elements, introduced a new sound to Western audiences.
In 2024, Hussain made history as the first Indian musician to win three Grammy awards in a single year.
Hussain’s band “Shakti” won Best Global Music Album, while his collaboration with Edgar Meyer, Béla Fleck, and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia earned Best Global Music Performance and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. He had previously won a Grammy in 2009.
In 2023, Hussain was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award.
Frances Ibiefo
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