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Last Updated: December 16, 2024, 10:41 IST
Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain passes away at 73 due to lung-related issues
The music world mourns the loss of legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, who passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco, succumbing to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The news has reverberated throughout India, eliciting heartfelt tributes from various notable figures including Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, and AR Rahman, all of whom expressed their deep sorrow at his passing.
Hussain’s final public engagement came earlier this year when he attended the funeral of esteemed singer Pankaj Udhas. Udhas, who had been battling health issues, passed away on February 26 in Mumbai. Hussain had arrived at the funeral with his brother and fellow musician Taufiq Qureshi, and he reflected on Udhas’s impact, stating, “The amount of happiness he has shared with his music is immeasurable. We hold his family and Pankaj bhai in deep regard.”
Remembering Zakir Hussain
His family confirmed the news of his death on Monday morning. Zakir Hussain’s passing leaves a significant void in the music community. He is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, his daughters Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi, as well as his brothers Taufiq and Fazal Qureshi, and sister Khurshid Aulia.
In a statement to the media, his family said, “His prolific work as a teacher, mentor, and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians. He aimed to inspire the next generation to further their artistic pursuits. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians in history. We appreciate your understanding and request privacy during this difficult time.”
Zakir Hussain was born in 1951 as the eldest son of renowned tabla player Alla Rakha. Over his illustrious career, he received numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards. His contributions to Indian music were recognized with the Padma Shri in 1988, followed by the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. Notably, he became the first Indian musician to win three Grammys at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2024.
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