Tributes pour in as tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain passes away at 73

The world of music and art has lost a legend with the passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro and Grammy Award winner, who died on Sunday at the age of 73 in a San Francisco hospital. His death, attributed to heart-related issues, has left a profound void in the music community. Politicians, industrialists, and admirers from around the world have come forward to express their condolences, calling it an "irreparable loss" to India’s cultural heritage.

Zakir Hussain's passing has resonated deeply, with many describing him as a cultural ambassador whose rhythms bridged continents and generations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid a heartfelt tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain, acknowledging his immense contribution to Indian music and the global cultural landscape. In his message, Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the tabla maestro, calling his passing an irreplaceable loss for the world of 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.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2024

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari mourned his loss, describing it as "an irreparable loss to the country's art and music sector." He paid tribute to Hussain’s unwavering dedication to his craft, recognizing his monumental contribution to Indian and global music. "His dedication to art will always be remembered," Gadkari wrote, expressing sympathy for Hussain's family and fans.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also expressed his sorrow, stating that Hussain’s death was a significant loss for the music world. "His legacy will always remain alive in our memories," Gandhi said in his tribute. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge echoed similar sentiments, referring to Hussain as a musical genius who brought India's rich cultural heritage to the world. "His mesmerizing rhythms bridged borders and generations," Kharge wrote, acknowledging Hussain’s extraordinary international collaborations and honors.

Industrialists also joined in mourning the maestro’s passing. Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, expressed that the world had lost a rhythm that could never be replaced, with Hussain's tabla beats forever echoing in the soul of India. "His legacy is an eternal taal," Adani remarked. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, said that "the rhythm of India paused today," paying tribute to Hussain’s unparalleled contribution to Indian music.

Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises, recalled personal moments with the maestro, including hearing him perform at his home. "His beats will echo eternally," Goenka said, highlighting Hussain’s global influence and his deep connection with audiences worldwide.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his condolences, praying for peace for the departed soul and strength for his grieving family. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav echoed these thoughts, acknowledging the immense loss to India’s musical landscape.

Shashi Tharoor, Congress MP, shared his heartfelt sadness, recalling his admiration for Hussain’s performances and his presence in the film Heat and Dust. Tharoor revealed a personal connection with Hussain, as they shared the same birthday. "I was born the day he turned five," Tharoor shared, adding a personal note to his tribute.

Immeasurably saddened by the passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain today. We only met briefly once, but I have always admired his talent, his music performances, and even his screen presence in the 1989 film, “Heat and Dust”. And we shared an intimate personal connection – our… https://t.co/jjuDgZp5wh

— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 15, 2024

The passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain has sparked an outpouring of grief from celebrities and musicians also who were deeply influenced by his music.

Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej remembered the maestro for his "immense humility and approachable nature." Kej described Hussain as one of the greatest musicians India has ever produced, emphasizing how he mentored and nurtured the careers of many musicians who are now forces to be reckoned with themselves. "He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge," Kej said, reflecting on Hussain’s contributions to both Indian and global music. "His legacy will live on forever," he added.

Shocked, deeply saddened and devastated by the passing-on of the legend Ustad Zakir Hussain @ZakirHtabla. One of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for his immense humility, approachable nature,… pic.twitter.com/FxDeScxrvt

— Ricky Kej (@rickykej) December 16, 2024

American drummer Nate Smith, another artist who had worked with Hussain, expressed his gratitude, writing, "Thank you for all of the music you gave us," acknowledging the profound influence Hussain had on musicians across the world.

one time for the legend, Zakir Hussain.

rest in peace and thank you for all of the music you gave us. https://t.co/zv3zvH1Fjc

— Nate Smith (@natesmithdrums) December 16, 2024

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta also paid tribute, remembering how Hussain transformed the tabla into a celebrated and iconic instrument. "The man who made the tabla sexy, who brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront is gone," Mehta wrote. "His beats will echo eternally, and his presence will forever be missed."

In his tribute, singer Hariharan, a longtime admirer of Hussain’s work, said, "Ustad Zakir Hussain was not just a tabla legend; he was the heartbeat of Indian music. His music will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and his art."

Ranveer Singh, known for his exuberant energy and passion for music, expressed his profound sorrow over Hussain's death. He took to social media, writing, "The world has lost a true genius. Ustad Zakir Hussain’s music transcended boundaries, and his rhythms brought us closer to the divine. I’m deeply saddened by his passing. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest in peace, maestro."

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A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh)

Kareena Kapoor, who has always been vocal about her love for music, also paid her respects to the tabla legend. In her tribute, she said, "Such an immense loss for the music world. Ustad Zakir Hussain's legacy is timeless, and his influence on global music will never fade. Heartfelt condolences to his family and all who loved him. Rest in peace, Ustad Ji."

Zakir Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire and resonate through generations. His tabla beats, which brought Indian classical music to global stages, will forever echo in the hearts of music lovers, leaving an indelible mark on the world.