Renowned tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in a San Francisco hospital. His family confirmed on Monday that he succumbed to complications related to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a severe lung disease. He had been hospitalized for two weeks and was moved to the ICU when his condition worsened.
Born on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain was the son of tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha. Trained under his father’s expert guidance, he gave his first concert in the United States at just 11 years old. Over his illustrious career, he played a pivotal role in bringing the tabla to the global stage. A three-time Grammy Award winner, he was also honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award.
He is survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola and daughters Anisha Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. His passing has left the music world in deep mourning. The family expressed that he leaves behind an invaluable musical legacy that will inspire future generations. Tributes from celebrities and music lovers have poured in on social media, reflecting the profound impact of his musical genius.
