Amritsar: Akhand Path was organized in the memory of famous tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Thursday morning.
The ceremony was organized by the late tabla maestro’s younger brother, Fazal Qureshi, who expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to honor his brother at such a sacred site.
Speaking to ANI, Fazal Qureshi shared, “Today, I feel incredibly grateful that an Akhand recitation has been performed at the Golden Temple. It has been my long-standing desire to arrange this tribute in the name of Zakir Bhai Is, and I am.” “I’m very grateful for the opportunity to do that here.”
He further said, “We are also from Punjab and our family is from here, which makes this occasion even more special. I have also been given the Hukmnama, which I will take to my institute and keep it there, where anyone can come. Can and ask for blessings.”
Akhand Path, continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib was held behind Sri Akal Takht Sahib, where kirtan was performed to honor the memory of Zakir Hussain.
Bhai Gurdev Singh from the Golden Temple also spoke about the occasion. He said, “Today we are remembering Ustad Zakir Hussain, the name that became synonymous with the tabla. His contribution to music and people is immeasurable. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on.”
Singh emphasized the universal nature of love and respect, citing the deep devotion shown by Hussain’s family despite their different religious backgrounds.
He said, “Coming from a Muslim background, Fazal Qureshi has shown tremendous love for Guru Granth Sahib. His respect for Sikhism and his participation in this ceremony shows the unity of faiths and the power of love.”
The world lost the iconic tabla player on December 15, 2024, when Zakir Hussain passed away in San Francisco at the age of 73 due to complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a rare and debilitating lung disease.
His passing marked the end of an era in Indian classical music, but his musical legacy continues to inspire fans globally.
Born in a musical family, Zakir Hussain was the son of renowned tabla expert Allah Rakha. He seamlessly blends traditional Indian rhythms with global influences, creating timeless masterpieces that resonate across cultures.
His funeral was held in San Francisco, where family, friends and fellow musicians gathered to bid farewell to a man whose music transcended borders and languages.
Zakir Hussain’s family confirmed that he was suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that causes lesions to grow in the lungs, making breathing difficult.
