When Zakir Hussain reflected on his father's unique rhythmic prayers at his birth in a viral interview

Eight years ago, Zakir Hussain shared a touching memory of his father, the legendary tabla maestro Alla Rakha, who welcomed him into the world in a unique and heartfelt way. Rather than reciting traditional prayers, Alla Rakha, an accomplished tabla player, cradled his newborn son in his arms and whispered tabla rhythms into his ears. "These are my prayers," he told his wife, explaining that his devotion to Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesh was expressed through his music. This moment marked the beginning of Zakir's lifelong bond with the tabla.

Music and Prayer-Zakir Hussain tells the story of when his father whispered tals or beats into his ears!#zakirhussain pic.twitter.com/73OS5HuMjk

— sanjoy ghose (@advsanjoy) December 15, 2024

A Legacy of Music

Zakir Hussain, born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, was destined to carry forward the legacy of his father, Alla Rakha, a frequent collaborator of sitar virtuoso Pandit Ravi Shankar. Zakir’s unique ability to blend traditional Hindustani classical music with global influences made him a groundbreaking figure. Throughout his career, he earned global recognition and accolades, including four Grammy Awards. His influence extended beyond India as he became a global ambassador for the tabla, a symbol of both technical mastery and deep cultural heritage.

Rising from Humble Beginnings

Zakir’s early life was marked by his unrelenting dedication to his craft. As a student at St. Michael’s School and St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, Zakir traveled long distances with his tabla, sometimes sleeping on the floor of crowded trains to protect his instrument. Despite the hardships, his passion for the tabla never wavered. Even in his youth, he displayed a deep commitment to his art, always ensuring that his tabla was treated with respect and care.

The Five Rupees

One of Zakir’s most cherished memories came from a performance at the age of 12, when he accompanied his father to a concert with some of the greatest Indian classical musicians of the time, including Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, and Bismillah Khan. After performing, he was given a mere five rupees for his efforts. Reflecting on that moment later in life, Zakir said, “I have earned a lot of money in my life, but those five rupees were the most valuable.” This simple gesture symbolized his deep respect for the art of music and its spiritual value.

A Legacy that Transcends Time

Zakir’s extraordinary career was recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. His contributions to the world of music were unmatched, and his role in popularizing the tabla globally has left a lasting mark. As a teacher, performer, and innovator, Zakir Hussain's impact on both Indian and world music continues to inspire generations of musicians. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the rhythms of the tabla that resonate across the world.

A Life Remembered

Zakir Hussain’s death on December 15, 2024, in San Francisco, due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, is a profound loss for the music world. Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with admirers from all walks of life acknowledging his unparalleled contribution to music. Though he is no longer with us, Zakir Hussain’s music will continue to inspire, echoing through the hearts of those who were touched by his art and spirit.