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The world has lost one of its greatest musical icons. Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla maestro who revolutionised Indian classical music and earned global acclaim, passed away at 73 in San Francisco due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a lung disease.

His family, in a heartfelt statement, described his legacy as “extraordinary,” with an influence that will inspire generations to come. “He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations to come,” the statement, shared by The Indian Express, read.

Born in Mumbai in 1951, Hussain was a prodigy who performed his first concert at the age of seven. Trained by his illustrious father, Ustad Alla Rakha Khan, Hussain not only mastered the tabla but also elevated it to new heights, transforming it from an accompaniment instrument into a globally celebrated solo art form.

His unmatched artistry made him a sought-after accompanist and a beacon of Indian classical music.

Hussain’s illustrious career included four Grammy Awards and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour. Collaborating with global music legends such as Ravi Shankar, Hariprasad Chaurasia, and John McLaughlin, he transcended genres, blending Indian classical rhythms with jazz, fusion, and world music.

His groundbreaking album Making Music is often hailed as one of the finest examples of cross-cultural musical collaboration.

Tributes pour in for the maestro

As news of his demise spread, tributes poured in from all over the world. Fellow musicians, actors, and admirers expressed their grief and shared heartfelt memories.

Nayan Ghosh, a childhood friend and sitar maestro, called Hussain a “pathbreaker” who “put tabla and Indian music on the world map.”

Pakistani Grammy-winning artist Arooj Aftab shared how Hussain’s album Making Music had a transformative impact on her life, calling it a “tremendous contribution to the world.”

Legendary composer AR Rahman, mourning the loss on X, wrote, “Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim. His loss is immeasurable for all of us.” He also expressed regret for not collaborating more when he could, revealing his plans for an unfinished album.

Actor and environmentalist Dia Mirza took to Instagram to write, “When he played, his inner light shone so bright! His joy embraced us all… we experienced divinity.”

Mirza lauded Hussain’s humility, grace, and infectious enthusiasm, highlighting the respect he held for all artists. She hailed him as a maestro whose “golden heartbeat” will continue to resonate in the hearts of millions.

Expressing gratitude for his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness, she added, “Ustad Zakir Hussain, you are loved and will always be remembered with utmost respect.”

Actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan shared a photo with Hussain, expressing gratitude for the artist’s contributions. “Zakir Bhai left too soon, but his art remains eternal,” he noted.

Mohanlal, the renowned actor, echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on how Hussain’s rhythms united people across borders. “His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the music world,” he wrote.

Actor Ritesh Deshmukh paid tribute to Hussain’s unparalleled legacy, describing his music as a “gift” that will continue to inspire generations.

Sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan called Hussain a “phenomenon” and “one of the most loved musicians the world saw.”

A lasting legacy

Hussain’s genius wasn’t just confined to his technical brilliance; his music had an emotional depth that resonated across cultures and generations.

Reviewing his 2009 performance at Carnegie Hall, The New York Times described him as “a fearsome technician but also a whimsical inventor.” His influence extended far beyond the stage, shaping the global perception of Indian classical music.

As the world mourns this irreparable loss, Hussain’s beats will forever echo in the hearts of those touched by his genius. Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain, the rhythm of the world will never be the same without you.