Mumbai: The music fraternity is mourning the demise of renowned tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain, who passed away in San Francisco after battling chronic lung disease Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. His demise has left an irreparable void in the Indian classical music world.
Amidst the plethora of tributes pouring in, ace composer AR Rahman took to Twitter to express his sadness and regret over not being able to collaborate with Zakir Hussain as much as he had hoped.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi rajiun.
Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a great personality who brought Tabla to global fame. His loss is irreparable for all of us. I regret that we have not been able to cooperate with them as much as we did decades ago, although we had planned… – ARR Rahman (@arrahman) 16 December 2024
In his post, Rehman described Ustad Zakir Hussain as a great personality who gave global recognition to Tabla. He has written, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi rajiun. Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a great personality who brought Tabla to global fame. His loss is irreparable for all of us.”
Rahman also revealed that the two had planned to work together on an album, but unfortunately, that did not happen. he adds, “I regret not being able to collaborate with him as much as we did decades ago, although we had planned an album together. You will truly be missed. May his family and his countless students around the world find strength to bear this immense loss. #ZakirHussain.”
Ustad Zakir Hussain was a pioneer in Indian classical music who seamlessly blended traditional tabla rhythms with global musical styles. His contribution to both Indian and world music was unique. Known for his collaborations with international musicians such as George Harrison, John McLaughlin and Yo-Yo Ma, he redefined the role of Indian rhythms on the global stage.
Prospect PR’s John Blecher, speaking on behalf of his family, confirmed Ustad’s death. Zakir Hussain was privately battling his illness and his death has shocked the music world.
Zakir Hussain’s career spanned more than five decades, during which he earned honors such as the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan for his unique contribution to music. He was not only an excellent artist, but also a mentor to countless students around the world, inspiring generations of musicians.
