Legendary Tabla Player Zakir Hussain passed away at 73

Ace Tabla Players and percussionist Zakir Hussain has sadly passed away due to severe physical ailments in the US. The 73 year old legendary musician reportedly took his last breath on Sunday, 15 December, 2024 after a reported critical admission in the US a few hours ago, as per PTI. 

The versatile musician, percussionist and actor was said to be unhealthy with unspecified ailments while PTI reported that Zakir Hussain was admitted in the critical care following a heart issue in San Francisco. The news of the world famous musician being hospitalized was released only a few hours ago with his close friend and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia informing the musicians’ health update to PTI, reported Hindustan Times. 

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The Tabla legend had an illustrious career with magical musical knowledge and lively wisdom, making him a unique and gifted personality across the world. It is also to be noted that Zakir Hussain was dynamic and active till the last days, doing concerts and engaging with millions of fans and audience through his music. 

Zakir Hussain’s life in Highlights

The recipient of some of India’s highest honours such as Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, legendary Zakir Hussain was a homegrown talent, who learnt his art from his father, renowned Shri. Alla Rakha. Zakir Hussain from an early age was interested in the Tabla and had been a part of concerts from the age of 16. WIth years of experience and a knack for creativity, he was the most sought after percussionist not just in India, but globally. 

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Internationally Zakir Hussain made history by receiving three awards in a single night at the 2024 Grammy Awards. He was also famously known for collaborating with the famed music band The Beatles. 

Zakir Hussain considered majorly as the best Tabla player in India is married to Antonia Minnecola, his manager and a Kathak dancer and has two children- Anisa Qureshi and Isabelle Qureshi. Today marks a dark day for the Indian and Global music landscape, as fans, family and friends of the ace musician mourn the loss of an incredibly soulful human.