Zakir Hussain, the world-famous tabla player and composer, passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the age of 73.
Earlier that day, he was taken to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a hospital in San Francisco due to heart-related issues. This information was shared by his close friend, Rakesh Chaurasia, a flautist, in a conversation with the Press Trust of India (PTI).
Hussain’s manager, Nirmala Bachani, confirmed that the legendary musician had been in the hospital for the past two weeks, undergoing treatment for heart problems. She also revealed that Zakir Hussain had been dealing with blood pressure issues for some time. Despite his health struggles, Zakir Hussain’s contributions to music and his iconic performances will always be remembered.
Zakir Hussain Died
Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, renowned for his exceptional skill and creativity, passed away today at the age of 73 due to heart-related complications at a hospital in San Francisco. His manager, Nirmala Bachani, confirmed his hospitalization.
Zakir Hussain, born in Bombay as the eldest son of the legendary tabla player Allah Rakha, grew to be one of the most iconic tabla players in the world. His talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly gained fame both in India and internationally.
The New York Times once described Hussain as a “peerless North Indian tabla player” with a unique style. The paper highlighted his combination of technical mastery and playful innovation, calling him “a whimsical inventor, devoted to exuberant play.” His remarkable performances, like the one at Carnegie Hall in 2009, were noted for their incredible precision, where the speed of his fingers seemed to rival the beating of a hummingbird’s wings.
Zakir Hussain’s musical journey began early. He once shared the story of his first performance. A concert offer arrived at their house addressed to his father, but Zakir, just 13 years old, responded to the letter, saying his father could not take the gig, but his son was available. He did not mention his young age, and this led to his first major booking, marking the start of his successful career.
Zakir Hussain’s death marks the end of an era in Indian classical music, but his legacy will live on through his groundbreaking contributions to the tabla and the global music community.
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What Happened to Zakir Hussain?
Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro, died. He was hospitalized due to health issues. A source close to him revealed that he had been experiencing blood pressure problems, and his condition worsened, leading to his hospitalization in San Francisco. He is currently receiving medical care and has been admitted to the ICU due to heart-related issues.
Zakir Hussain is married to Kathak dancer and teacher Antonia Minnecola, who also serves as his manager. The couple has two daughters: Anisa Qureshi, a filmmaker who graduated from UCLA, and Isabella Qureshi, who is studying dance in Manhattan.
Longtime collaborator and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia confirmed Zakir’s hospitalization, saying he has been in the hospital for a week due to heart-related problems. He added that Zakir is currently in the ICU, and everyone is deeply concerned about his health.
Zakir Hussain’s Career
Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla maestro, has had a remarkable career spanning several decades. He performed extensively during the Fall season in both the US and the UK. His global influence continued as he toured with the Crosscurrents Trio, which included renowned musicians such as double bassist Dave Holland and saxophonist Chris Potter. Their final performance was on November 26 in Paris.
Throughout his career, Hussain has been honored with numerous awards. He was conferred the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, all by the Government of India. Hussain’s musical excellence has earned him seven Grammy Award nominations, with four Grammy wins to his name.
Born to tabla legend Ustad Alla Rakha and Bavi Begum, Zakir Hussain has worked with some of the greatest musicians in the world. His collaborations include performances with icons like The Beatles, John McLaughlin, Hariprasad Chaurasia, Ravi Shankar, and many others, further cementing his place as one of the most influential musicians of his time.
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Zakir Hussain Hospitalized FAQs
Q.1. What happened to Zakir Hussain?
Ans. Zakir died in San Francisco due to heart problems and is currently receiving treatment in the ICU.
Q.2. Why is Zakir Hussain in the ICU?
Ans. Zakir was admitted to the ICU due to heart-related issues after his health deteriorated, following ongoing blood pressure problems.
Q.3. Who confirmed Zakir Hussain’s hospitalization?
Ans. Zakir’s brother-in-law, Ayub Aulia, confirmed his hospitalization and requested fans to pray for his speedy recovery.
Q.4. What is Zakir Hussain known for?
Ans. Zakir is a legendary tabla maestro, percussionist, and composer, renowned for his collaborations with famous musicians like Ravi Shankar and The Beatles.
Q.5. What awards has Zakir Hussain received?
Ans. Zakir has been honored with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India, along with multiple Grammy Awards.
