Music World Bereaved, Zakir Hussain Deeply Mourned

India-West Staff Reporter

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Renowned tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain passed away on Monday at the age of 73 in a San Francisco hospital, his family confirmed. Hussain had been battling complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and spent two weeks in the hospital, including time in intensive care, before peacefully passing away at 4 PM.

Hussain’s sister, Khurshid Aulia, told the medi that his final moments were serene and the ventilation machine had been switched off.

Born on March 9, 1951, to legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha, Zakir Hussain emerged as one of the greatest percussionists of his era. He is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their daughters, Anisa and Isabella Qureshi.

In a statement, his family honored his legacy: “He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work cherished by music lovers across the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations.”

Hussain’s illustrious six-decade career was marked by groundbreaking collaborations. His 1973 project Shakti with John McLaughlin, L. Shankar, and T.H. Vinayakram bridged Indian classical music with jazz, setting the stage for global fusion. He worked with Indian legends like Ravi Shankar, Shivkumar Sharma, and Ali Akbar Khan, as well as international icons such as Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, George Harrison, and Mickey Hart.

A recipient of four Grammy Awards, including three earlier this year, Hussain was also honored with India’s highest civilian awards—the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023).

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the world. Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej hailed Hussain’s humility and generosity, calling him a “treasure trove of skill and knowledge.” American drummer Nate Smith thanked him for “all of the music you gave us.”

Shankar Mahadevan, Udit Narayan, Sonu Nigam, Salim Merchant, Jatin Pandit, Nitin Mukesh and Anup Jalota were among just a few of the singers who mourned the passing of the maestro.

Also Read: Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain Bags 3 Grammys