Renowned tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the US on Sunday, December 15, due to heart-related issues. He had been admitted to the ICU in a hospital in San Francisco following heart-related complications. His close friend, flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, confirmed the news.
A source had revealed that Zakir Hussain had been “facing blood pressure issues.”
Rakesh Chaurasia further stated, “Zakir Hussain was receiving treatment for a heart-related issue over the past week. He was unwell and currently in the ICU, and everyone was deeply concerned about his health.”
Zakir Hussain, son of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha, was a leading figure in both Indian and global music. Starting his tabla journey at the age of seven, he began performing professionally across India by 12. Throughout his career, he made remarkable contributions to Indian classical and world music, while also composing and performing for Indian and international films, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Decades ago, Zakir Hussain relocated to San Francisco with his family, continuing to play a pivotal role in promoting Indian music on the global stage. His extraordinary achievements earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023). In 1999, he was also honored with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.
0 Comments