
Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away on Monday in a San Francisco hospital at the age of 73, as announced by his family. He was battling idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which led to complications. After being hospitalized for two weeks, he was moved to intensive care as his condition worsened.
Tributes Pour in for Ustad Zakir Hussain
Social media was flooded with heartfelt tributes for the legendary tabla artist. Politicians, industrialists, sportspersons, and film personalities expressed their condolences and admiration for the maestro.
Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, wrote:
“The news of the demise of the great tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain ji is deeply saddening. His passing is a big loss for the world of music. My heartfelt condolences to his family and fans in this difficult time. Ustad Zakir Hussain ji has left behind a priceless legacy of his art that will forever stay alive in our memories.”
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma shared:
“The passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain Sahab has made our cultural world poorer. Through his magical fingers on the dayan and bayan, he took Indian tabla to global stages. His intricate rhythms will always be remembered.”
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said:
“Zakir Hussain ji’s tabla spoke a language that crossed borders, cultures, and generations. The sound of his rhythm will remain in our hearts forever.”
Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, tweeted:
“The rhythm of India paused today… In tribute.”
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, posted:
“The world has lost a rhythm it can never replace. Ustad Zakir Hussain, our maestro, whose tabla beats will forever echo in India’s soul, leaves behind a legacy that is an eternal taal, resonating across generations.”
Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises, shared:
“The world has fallen silent as the tabla has lost its maestro. Ustad Zakir Hussain, a genius who brought the soul of India to the world stage, has left us. His beats will echo forever.”
A Life of Rhythm and Legacy
Renowned singer Anup Jalota, who had collaborated and toured with Ustad Zakir Hussain, expressed his sorrow:
“His passing is a monumental loss. Such a tabla artist has never existed before, and I doubt there will ever be one like him again. He made the tabla so engaging and meaningful. I performed with him in America and Canada, and every moment spent with him is a treasured memory.”
Zakir Hussain’s unmatched talent, passion for Indian classical music, and ability to take the tabla to global heights have left a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.