End of an era: The vibrant voice of Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain falls silent
PTC News Desk: Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain who died on Monday was suffering from heart ailments and was undergoing treatment at a hospital in San Francisco in the US. He passed away at the age of 73.
He had been hospitalised for two weeks, however was later shifted tot eh intensive care unit (ICU) after his health started deteriorating. Condolences from all the spans of life poured in after the demise of percussionist.
Zakir Hussain: A legendry percussionist
Widely regarded as one of the greatest percussionists of all time, Ustad Zakir Hussain was not only a master of his craft but also a cultural bridge-builder who elevated Indian classical music to international acclaim. His contributions to both traditional and contemporary music have left an indelible mark on the global music landscape. He revolutionised the world of Indian classical music while creating groundbreaking collaborations.
He redefined the role of tabla and transforming it from a supporting instrument to gaining centre stage during perfromances. His unconventional collaborations with legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Vilayat Khan in traditional arrangment and groundbreaking collaborations with international musicians such as John McLaughlin in 'Shakti' and Mickey Hart in 'Planet Drum' pushed boundaries.
Ustad Zakir Hussain who is honoured with all the three Padma Awards is an epitome of India's rich cultural and musical heritage. He was the son of legendry Ustad Alla Rakha Khan. The beats of Tabla reached the ears of newborn even before the first call to prayer (Azaan). He began to expand his footprints in the music industry when he was just 12. He polished his musical skills alongside formal education leading him to become a music legend.
His journey began in 1973 when he released his first album. From 1979 to 2007, he captivated audiences at various international festivals and on numerous albums, enchanting them with the lively rhythms and complex patterns of his instrument.
The legend who made the world go "Wah Ustad Wah"
The 1990s "Wah Taj!" TV commercial by Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea, featuring Ustad Zakir Hussain, is unforgettable for many Indians — a perfect fusion of charm, grace, and the maestro's unparalleled charisma.
Filmed against the stunning backdrop of the Taj Mahal, the ad showed Hussain deeply immersed in his tabla performance, with his lively head movements causing his curly hair to sway, and his captivating smile enchanting the audience.
- With inputs from agencies
