Renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at a San Francisco hospital, as confirmed by his family on Monday, December 16, 2024. He was 73 years old and succumbed to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis after being hospitalized for two weeks, during which his condition worsened, leading to his stay in the ICU.
Throughout his distinguished career, which spanned six decades, Hussain was a pivotal figure in the music world, garnering significant acclaim, including four Grammy Awards, with notable recognition at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year. His innovative collaboration in 1973 with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist T.H. ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram created a groundbreaking fusion of Indian classical music and jazz that captivated audiences worldwide.
Hussain’s contributions to music were recognized with prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. His legacy as one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians will continue to inspire future generations of artists.
This tragic loss is felt deeply within the music community, but Hussain’s remarkable influence on both Indian classical music and global music fusion offers a hopeful note for the future of musical innovation. His pioneering spirit and creative collaborations serve as a testament to the power of music in bridging cultures and celebrating diversity.