Ustad Zakir Hussain, Padma Vibhushan Awardee and Tabla Virtuoso, Dies at 72

Renowned tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain died in San Francisco while undergoing treatment. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Zakir Hussain was a legendary figure in Indian classical music. Over his illustrious career, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Being the grandson of music legends, his dad Ustad Allah Rakha Qureshi was no lesser tabla maestro of that era. Zakir attended early school from St. Michael, Mahim, and graduated with B Com from St Xavier's College, Mumbai.

At the age of 11, he held his first concert in the United States, which marked the start of a trailblazing journey in music. He released his first album, Living in the Material World, in 1973. Known for his unique rhythm and passion, Hussain was often seen drumming on any flat surface he came across, from kitchen utensils to everyday objects, and thus showed his innate talent.

He had to travel in general train compartments most of the times as he could not afford more expensive carriages. Still, he took all care and kept his tabla safely on his lap so that nothing may happen to it.

For his valuable contributions to music, Zakir Hussain received three Grammy Awards; he was a global ambassador for Indian classical music all over his life.