Renowned Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73. Hussain amassed numerous accolades in his long-standing career, including four Grammys out of seven total nominations. Following Hussain’s death, his fans and fellow celebrities from across the world took to social media and paid tribute to the legend through their messages.
Here is what Hussain’s family said about his death and what was the cause.
Zakir Hussain passes away at 73
Zakir Hussain’s death at the age of 73 was confirmed by his family in a statement (via The Guardian).
Hussain’s family mentioned that he passed away due to complications from a chronic lung disease named idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The legendary Indian Tabla player took his last breath in a San Francisco hospital on Sunday, December 15, 2024.
In the statement to PTI, Khurshid Aulia, Hussain’s sister revealed, “He passed away very peacefully after the ventilation machine was switched off. This was 4 pm San Francisco time.” The family statement reads, “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 Tabla legend’s family also lauded Hussain for his “work as a teacher, mentor and educator,” which has helped inspire many musicians. They further added, “He hoped to inspire the next generation to go further. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time.”
Born in 1951 to former tabla legend Ustad Alla Rakha Qureshi, Hussain started playing Tabla at the young age of 7 and in his career spanning 60 years, he has collaborated with many renowned musicians like Van Morrison, George Harrison, Charles Lloyd, and many more.
In addition to his work in music, Hussain also gave special appearances in movies like Monkey Man starring Dev Patel, and the 1983 movie Heat and Dust.
