A file photo of Zakir Hussain performing at the Indian Music Experience (IME) in July 2019. , Photo courtesy: AFP
Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain has left such a huge legacy with his “ever dancing fingers” that his music is permanently embedded in the sensibilities of every music lover. There is something more special at the Indian Music Experience (IME) Museum located in JP Nagar, Bengaluru.
When the maestro inaugurated the IME in 2019, he generously set aside one of his tabla sets, which he felt had “fallen at the right place”. It was a set that had been part of many of his international platforms, Who were in sync with the global tunes of the star musicians. ,
Tabla in Stars Gallery
Ustad Zakir Hussain’s tabla is on display in The Stars Gallery, one of the prestigious sections of IME. The gallery is dedicated to showcasing the stalwarts of Indian music – artists whose contributions have shaped the landscape of Indian classical, folk and contemporary music. The gallery contains some of the iconic memorabilia of great artists of Indian music.
Along with Zakir’s tabla, visitors can explore other artefacts including Ustad Bismillah Khan’s Shehnai, MS Subbulakshmi’s tambura and saree, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi’s musical attire and Pandit Ravi Shankar’s sitar, surbahar and tanpura.
“Each of these items tells a unique story and reflects the lasting impact of these extraordinary musicians. Contributions like Zakir Sahab help us deepen the story of India’s musical heritage, creating an evolving space where past and present co-exist, and music lives on,” says Preema.
Prema John says, “Zakir was a legend in the world of music and his demise has left a void that will be felt for generations.” Museum Director, IME. “Tabla has been at the heart of many genres, from classical and folk to fusion and world music. Zakir has been at the forefront of many of these musical conversations.
relations between generations
Prima says that having the set as part of the IME collection feels like a connection between generations of music lovers. “It is an honor for us to share this priceless piece of history with our visitors. It is indeed an honor to be handed such a precious gift from Zakir Saheb. He played these drums on the opening night of our museum.”
Prema says the fact that Zakir redefined the boundaries of rhythm, blending tradition with innovation, something very few have done, is a testament to his versatility. “Having his tabla in our collection embodies the essence of what we strive to achieve at IME – preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Indian music, as well as showcasing its ongoing evolution.”
musical proficiency
This particular tabla is much more than a musical instrument, says Preema. “It is a testament to Zakir’s exceptional musical proficiency and his passion for music. It represents an ongoing dialogue between different generations of music.
When IME approached the maestro for tabla, Zakir’s response was incredibly gracious, says Preema. “We were asking Zakir to not only showcase an iconic instrument but also to honor his legacy in a way that would appeal to both Indian and global audiences. Their response was full of warmth and enthusiasm, which was pleasing to us.”
feeling of connection
Zakir expressed a real sense of connection with the idea of IME being a place where people feel alive in tune with their history and background, says Preema.
Prema says, although IME had formally requested the tabla set earlier, the moment on the opening night, when Zakir publicly donated the tabla set, was wonderful. “It was nothing short of magical, to be entrusted with such an important part of their history was a great recognition.”
Zakir’s response to IME, calling it an “amazing place where music is being documented the way it is happening. You have information at your fingertips in a way that you can really understand, and more about our musical heritage. One can interact with it to know,” says Preema.
Zakir added, “IME is perhaps the first institution to preserve and document our art history, with the aim of making it available to all in the coming decades. State-of-the-art cataloging methods are being used and the information is available through a user-friendly system, so even a child will be able to learn.
IME is preparing a special showcase for Ustad Zakir along with several exhibitions. “We currently have Zakir Sahab’s inaugural IME concert going on at the entrance of the museum,” says Preema.
Additionally, on December 26 (6.30 to 8 pm), IME will host a condolence gathering with leading musicians and music organizations from the city to honor his legacy. Flutist Praveen Godkhindi, Ghat artist Giridhar Udupa, Vainika Suma Sudhindra, violinist Kumaresh, tabla artist Ravindra Yavagal and violinist Apoorva Krishna will be the tribute speakers in this program. As part of the ongoing tribute, IME will also feature exhibitions with rare photographs of Zakir, performance videos and a commentary that will provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Zakir’s artistry and collaborations across different musical genres.
published – December 26, 2024 10:40 am IST
