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In 1999, Zakir Hussain received the National Heritage Fellowship from the United States National Endowment for the Arts.
Tabla legend Zakir Hussain is a five-time Grammy winner. (Photo: X)
Renowned tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain, whose untimely passing left fans and the music world in shock, was much more than just a maestro of his instrument. The legendary musician, undergoing treatment in the US for heart-related issues, passed away, marking the end of an era for the world of classical music. His unparalleled contribution to the global music scene, however, goes beyond his extraordinary tabla skills.
While Zakir Hussain is best known as a tabla legend, his talents extended into the world of cinema. In addition to captivating audiences with his musical genius, he also explored acting and earned recognition for his performances in films. His first notable foray into acting came in 1983 with the film ‘Heat and Dust‘, where he shared the screen with veteran actor Shashi Kapoor. Hussain’s acting journey continued to flourish in the following decades.
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One of his most memorable roles was in the 1998 film ‘Saaz‘, where he starred opposite the acclaimed Shabana Azmi. The film, inspired by the lives of legendary singers Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, garnered significant attention for its sensitive portrayal of the personal lives of the two sisters. Hussain’s performance as Azmi’s lover was widely praised, though the film’s provocative content sparked public debate.
Zakir Hussain’s contribution to cinema was not confined to acting. His music enriched numerous films, and his influence on the soundtracks of movies is evident in the way his rhythmic genius resonated with audiences, creating a seamless connection between classical music and cinematic storytelling.
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Zakir Hussain’s musical journey began at the tender age of three under the guidance of his father, the legendary tabla maestro Allah Rakha. His father’s influence on his early years of training laid the foundation for Hussain’s unmatched virtuosity. Allah Rakha was a prominent figure in the world of classical music, having collaborated with greats like Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan.
Hussain’s family had deep roots in music, and it was through this heritage that he honed his craft. His formal education included studies at St Michael’s High School in Mumbai and later at St Xavier’s College, where his love for music continued to grow alongside his academic pursuits.
An Icon of Global Recognition
Zakir Hussain’s global influence is indisputable. With five Grammy Awards and a slew of prestigious honours, Hussain has been celebrated for his contributions to music on both a national and international scale. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, three of the highest civilian awards in the country. In 1990, he received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, followed by the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship and the Ratna Sadsya Award in 2018.
In 1999, Hussain received the National Heritage Fellowship from the United States National Endowment for the Arts, the highest honour bestowed on an artist by the US government. His recognition by the global music community culminated in his collection of five Grammy Awards, with his most recent victories occurring in February 2024.
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Personal Life and Legacy
Zakir Hussain’s personal life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional one. He was married to Kathak dancer and teacher Antonia Minnecola, who also served as his manager. Together, they had two daughters, Anisa and Isabella Qureshi, who are continuing to carry forward their father’s legacy in the world of the arts.
The passing of Zakir Hussain leaves a profound void in the world of music. His contributions to tabla playing, film, and cultural diplomacy have made him an iconic figure whose influence will continue to inspire musicians and artists for generations to come.
