Legendary Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain Passes Away at 73 But His Rhythm Stays Etched Like “Wah Ustad, Forever

India’s music world is in mourning on Monday with the passing of the tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, one of the most celebrated and influential percussionists in the world. Hussain, who revolutionised classical Indian music and brought the intricate rhythms of the tabla to global audiences, died at the age of 73 after a prolonged illness at a hospital in San Francisco, confirmed his family. He was suffering from chronic lung disease, had been in hospital for close to two weeks and later was shifted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after his condition deteriorated. "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 statement issued by the family read. Born to the musical family of legendary tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha on March 9, 1951, Ustad Zakir Hussain has been Widely regarded as one of the greatest living musicians. His death marks the end of an era in the world of Indian classical music.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm. Through this, he seamlessly blended Indian classical traditions with global music, thus becoming an icon of cultural unity”, wrote Prime Minister Narendra Modi on ‘X’.

His mastery of the tabla—a traditional Indian percussion instrument—combined with his innovative approach and fusion collaborations, earned him a place as a cultural ambassador who introduced millions worldwide to the magic of Indian rhythm. Hussain showed early signs of musical brilliance and began his formal training under his father's guidance, later studying with several other great maestros. His extraordinary talent became evident at an early age when he performed for All India Radio at just 11 years old. Through his life he has received several honours and honorary doctorates. In 2019, he received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India's highest honour for artists. He received the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. Earlier this year, Zakir Hussain became the first musician from India to receive three Grammy awards at one time. He received Grammys for Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance, and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.

“Deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely death of Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned maestro and one of the greatest tabla players of all times. This is a huge loss for the country and his millions of admirers across the planet. I convey my sincere condolences to the family, fraternity and followers of the great artist”, posted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on ‘X’, as heartbroken fans from across the world kept pouring their condolences on social media.

Throughout his illustrious career, Hussain transformed the perception of tabla music, taking it from its roots in Hindustani classical traditions to the international stage. He performed alongside a diverse range of artists, from classical musicians to jazz legends, and even rock icons. His collaborations with sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, violinist L. Subramaniam, and Western musicians such as George Harrison and John McLaughlin helped bring Indian music to the global forefront. In the words of Hussain himself, “Rhythm is the heartbeat of the universe. It’s the one thing that connects us all.” Today, the world feels a collective pause, as it mourns the loss of a master who gave us a rhythm to live by.​