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Last Updated: December 16, 2024, 09:51 IST
AR Rahman mourns the loss of tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, revealing plans for a collaborative album.
AR Rahman and Zakir Hussain at Grammy Awards 2024.
The passing of renowned tabla maestro Ustaad Zakir Hussain has sparked overwhelming sorrow throughout India. As tributes poured in from diverse sectors of society, renowned composer AR Rahman took to social media to honor his late friend, voicing his regret over the diminished opportunities for collaboration in recent years. Rahman disclosed that the pair had intentions to create a new album together.
In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), Rahman expressed that Hussain was a source of inspiration for many and emphasized the profound impact of his absence. He stated, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim. His loss is immeasurable for all of us. I regret not being able to collaborate with him as much as we did decades ago, though we had planned an album together. You shall be truly missed. May his family and his countless students worldwide find the strength to bear this immense loss #ZakirHussain,” capturing the essence of Hussain’s influence in the music world.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim . His loss is immeasurable for all of us. I regret not being able to collaborate with him as much as we did decades ago, though we had planned… — A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) December 16, 2024
Statement from Zakir Hussain’s Family
Zakir Hussain, who had been under medical care for the past two weeks, passed away in a San Francisco hospital at the age of 73. His family confirmed that he succumbed to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. His departure has created an unfillable gap in the realm of music. He leaves behind his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and daughters Anisa and Isabella Qureshi.
In a statement released to the media, the family remarked on Hussain’s extensive contributions as a teacher and mentor, stating, “His prolific work has left an indelible mark on countless musicians. He hoped to inspire the next generation to go further. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time. The family requests privacy at this time.”
Celebrating Zakir Hussain’s Achievements
Earlier this year, Zakir Hussain made history by becoming the first Indian musician to win three Grammy awards at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. His honors included Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance, and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. In February, AR Rahman shared a celebratory selfie with Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, and V. Selvaganesh on Instagram, expressing joy over their achievements, noting, “It’s raining Grammys for India …Congrats Grammy winners #ustadzakirhussain @zakirhq9 (3 Grammys) @shankar.mahadevan (first Grammy) @kanjeeraselva (first Grammy).”
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