Legendary tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 on Sunday evening in a San Francisco hospital. His manager, Nirmala Bachani, confirmed that Hussain had been suffering from heart-related issues and high blood pressure prior to his death.
Born to the renowned Ustad Alla Rakha Khan, Hussain began his tabla training at the age of seven and was performing across India by the age of 12. Over the years, he became a globally acclaimed figure, renowned for his mastery of the tabla and his significant contributions to both Indian classical and world music.
Having settled in San Francisco with his family more than 40 years ago, Hussain continued to shape the global music scene. His exceptional career was recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), Padma Vibhushan (2023), and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1990).
Following his passing, tributes poured in from political leaders, celebrities, and fellow musicians. Business tycoon Gautam Adani expressed deep sorrow, describing the loss of a rhythm that could never be replaced. Cricketer Virender Sehwag also paid tribute, praising Hussain as a legendary figure whose music transcended all boundaries.