Renowned Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 73
Patiala, 16 December (Desk)
Ustad Zakir Hussain, the world-renowned Indian tabla maestro, passed away at the age of 73. His family confirmed the news. Hussain had been admitted to the ICU of a hospital in San Francisco, USA, after suffering from heart problems. He had been residing in the US.
Cause of Death: According to family sources, Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away early Monday morning due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He had been hospitalized for the past two weeks and was shifted to the ICU after his condition deteriorated. The family had earlier denied the reports of his demise.
Four Grammy Awards: In his illustrious career spanning six decades, Ustad Zakir Hussain had won four Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. The renowned musician collaborated with many famous international and Indian artists. One of India’s most celebrated classical musicians, the renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023.
Born in Mumbai: Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Ustad Zakir Hussain was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. He had won four Grammy Awards. His father, Ustad Allah Rakha Qureshi, and mother, Bibi Begum, were also tabla players.
First Concert at 11: Zakir Hussain received his early education from St. Michael’s School in Mahim, Mumbai. He graduated from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Zakir Hussain performed his first concert in the United States at the tender age of 11. In 1973, he released his debut album, “Living in the Material World.”
