Zakir Hussain Dies at 73 in San Francisco

Renowned tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, leaving behind a legacy that transcended musical genres and cultural boundaries. A child prodigy, Hussain was immersed in music from a young age, guided by his father, the legendary Ustad Alla Rakha, and was performing internationally by his teens. His collaborations with global artists such as George Harrison, John McLaughlin, and Yo-Yo Ma expanded the reach of Indian classical music worldwide. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards and India's prestigious Padma Awards. The music world mourns his loss, acknowledging his unparalleled contributions to the art of tabla and his role as a cultural ambassador. Tributes from fellow musicians and public figures highlight his profound impact on the global music scene and the personal loss felt by many.