Hussain died on Monday at a hospital in San Francisco due to complications related to his heart, his family confirmed in a statement.
According to reports, he had been hospitalized for two weeks and was moved to the ICU as his condition deteriorated.
Widely regarded as the greatest tabla player of his generation, Hussain was the son of the legendary Ustad Allah Rakha.
A Musical Legacy
Born on March 5, 1951, Zakir Hussain had an illustrious career spanning over six decades, collaborating with globally renowned Indian and international artists. His work earned him acclaim as a virtuoso who transcended musical boundaries and brought the tabla to the global stage.
In October, Hussain shared a glimpse of his time in the United States on Instagram, posting a video of the autumn season. “Just sharing a wonder moment,” he captioned the post, reflecting his love for the simple beauty of life.
Tributes Pour In
Following the news of his passing, fans and followers flooded social media with heartfelt tributes.
One user wrote, “Rest in peace, Ustad ji,” while another expressed disbelief, commenting, “Yaah, it’s unbelievable.”
Another tribute read, “Your skill and your work will be remembered for centuries—an emotional farewell to a legend.”
Hussain’s unparalleled contributions to music and mastery of the tabla will leave an enduring legacy for generations.
