San Francisco: Tabla expert Ustad Zakir Hussain, who played a key role in bringing Indian classical music on the global map, was laid to rest in San Francisco on Friday.
His funeral was attended by family members, friends and many famous musicians. Drummer Shivamani along with some other musicians paid musical tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain at his funeral.
Ahead of the funeral rituals, Shivamani shared a few words in memory of Zakir Hussain on Instagram. Remembering the icon, he became emotional and could not control his tears.
Fans also gathered in large numbers to bid their last farewell to the great musician.
On behalf of the Government and people of India, K Srikar Reddy, Consul General of India in San Francisco, paid homage to the mortal remains of Ustad Zakir Hussain by draping them with the Indian national flag.
Reddy expressed condolences to his wife Antonia Minnecola and his family members and read out the condolence message shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter.
In a post on X, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco said, “On behalf of the Government and people of India, Consul General Dr. K. Sreekar Reddy paid tribute to the mortal remains of Ustad Zakir Hussain by draping the mortal remains of an Indian citizen. ” Flag, expressed condolences to his wife Ms Antonia Minnecola and his family members and read the condolence message. [tweet] Honorable Prime Minister. About 300 people including his family, friends, musicians [Sivamani and others]Music lovers and members of the diaspora paid their last tribute to him.”
Zakir Hussain, son of renowned tabla player Allah Rakha, blends traditions with global influences to create masterpieces that transcend language and culture. He left for his heavenly abode on December 15 but the rhythms he created on his tabla will always live on in the hearts and minds of his fans.
Ustad Hussain’s family said in a statement that he died of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease that causes scarring in the lungs. Due to this lesion, breathing becomes increasingly difficult.
He is survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola and daughters Anissa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
