Why in News?
Ustad Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla virtuoso, has passed away at the age of 73. He was suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and had been hospitalised in San Francisco. His legacy will continue to inspire generations, and his contributions to music will never be forgotten.
Introduction of Ustad Zakir Hussain:
- Ustad Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, India.
- Zakir started playing the tabla at a young age and gave his first concert at the age of 12 in the United States.
- He became a globally renowned tabla virtuoso, known for his rhythmic mastery and unique style.
- Zakir Hussain’s music blended Indian classical rhythms with various global music genres, including jazz and fusion.
- His contribution to music earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
About Ustad Zakir Hussain’s Life and Family:
- Early Life: Ustad Zakir Hussain was born into a musical family. His father, Ustad Alla Rakha, was one of the most celebrated tabla players in India, renowned for his collaboration with legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar. His mother, Bavi Begum, was also involved in music, making the household a hub of musical learning.
- His father began teaching him tabla at a very young age.
- By the age of seven, Zakir had already started his musical training, and by twelve, he was already performing alongside his father at various events.
- In this phase Zakir performed in the United States. This debut performance in the US was a significant moment in his life, as it opened doors for him to showcase his talent on a global platform.
- From 1973 to 2007, Zakir Hussain showcased his exceptional tabla skills at various international events and through albums.
- Education: Zakir pursued his schooling at St. Michael’s High School in Mumbai and later attended St. Xavier’s College for his undergraduate studies. While he excelled academically, his true passion remained with music, and he decided to dedicate his life to mastering the tabla.
- Personal Life: In 1978, Ustad Zakir Hussain married Antonia Minicola, an Italian woman who was also deeply involved in the arts. Antonia, a kathak dancer, was not only his partner in life but also played a significant role as his manager. The couple had two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
Contributions to Indian Classical Music:
- Unique Style and Techniques: Ustad Zakir Hussain’s mastery of the tabla is characterised by his innovative rhythmic patterns and intricate techniques. He is known for his ability to blend traditional Indian classical rhythms with a modern sensibility, creating a sound that appeals to both traditional connoisseurs and contemporary listeners.
- Popularizing Indian Classical Music: Ustad Zakir Hussain played a pivotal role in introducing Indian classical music to a global audience. His performances, often conducted in prestigious venues worldwide, have brought the tabla to the forefront of international music.
- Collaborations Across Genres: Ustad Zakir Hussain has collaborated with a wide range of musicians across genres, including jazz, fusion, and world music. His work with renowned artists such as John McLaughlin, Carlos Santana, George Harrison, and Pandit Ravi Shankar highlights his versatility.
- Notable Projects and Albums: Some of the most notable projects featuring Zakir Hussain include Shakti, a fusion band formed with John McLaughlin, Remember Shakti, and the Tabla Beat Science collective. Another album named “Planet Drum” (with Mickey Hart). In 1973, Zakir Hussain released his first album, “Living in the Material World”.
Awards and Recognitions:
- Padma Shri (1988): Ustad Zakir Hussain received the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, at the age of 37, making him the youngest recipient at the time.
- Padma Bhushan (2002): In 2002, Zakir Hussain was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, for his immense contribution to music. This recognition cemented his status as a global ambassador of Indian classical music and a maestro in the world of percussion.
- Padma Vibhushan (2023): The Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, was conferred upon Ustad Zakir Hussain in 2023. This honor was a testament to his lifetime of dedication to music and his impact on both Indian and global musical landscapes.
- Grammy Awards: Zakir Hussain is a Grammy Award-winning artist, having won the prestigious award multiple times. He received his first Grammy in 1992 for his album “Planet Drum” alongside Mickey Hart, which blended global rhythms and traditional percussion. In 2009, he won his second Grammy for “Global Drum Project”, showcasing his continued influence in the world music space. In 2024, he received three Grammy Awards for his innovative contributions to world music through his collaborative projects.
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1991): Zakir Hussain was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1991, which is one of the most prestigious awards in the field of performing arts in India.
- International Recognitions: Apart from national accolades, Ustad Zakir Hussain has received several international honors. In 2016, he was invited by former U.S. President Barack Obama to perform at the White House, marking a historic moment as he became the first Indian musician to perform at an All-Star Global Concert there. His contribution to world music has earned him recognition across borders and cultures.
- Apart from music, Zakir explored acting. He made his debut in the 1983 British film “Heat and Dust”, where he acted alongside Shashi Kapoor.
- He appeared in other films like “The Perfect Murder” (1988) and “Saz” (1998), showcasing his versatility beyond music.
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