Days after the world bid farewell to tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, his family shared a poignant post on Instagram, offering a glimpse into their grief and love. The legendary musician passed away last week in San Francisco, succumbing to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a rare lung condition. He was 73.
The family’s first public expression since Hussain’s demise featured an undated black-and-white photograph showing the intertwined hands of the maestro, his wife Antonia Minnecola, and their daughters, Anisa and Isabella Qureshi. The image, a symbol of unity and enduring love, was captioned, “Always together in love,” and tagged the family members.
The post resonated deeply with Hussain’s global fanbase, amassing over 21,000 likes and nearly 1,000 heartfelt comments, alongside numerous shares. Among those paying homage were notable artists, including Shankar Mahadevan, Karsh Kale, Ankur Tewari, Hariharan, and Pakistani musician Ali Sethi.
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A Legacy Remembered
Hussain’s funeral took place at the serene Fernwood Cemetery in San Francisco, where hundreds of admirers gathered to honor his memory. Close friends and fellow musicians, including percussionist Sivamani, played soulful drum tributes nearby, celebrating his life through music—a fitting farewell for an artist who spent six decades redefining rhythm and melody.
A Life of Unparalleled Achievements
Born to legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha, Zakir Hussain carved his own path as one of the world’s most celebrated percussionists. His extraordinary career earned him four Grammy Awards, including three earlier this year at the 66th Grammy Awards. His collaborations with global artists like John McLaughlin in the fusion band Shakti and his solo work left an indelible mark on both Indian classical music and the global music scene.
Hussain’s accolades extended beyond the stage. He was honored with India’s prestigious Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to the arts.
A Musical Icon, Forever Remembered
Zakir Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his music, his teachings, and the countless lives he touched. As the world mourns the loss of a maestro, it also celebrates the enduring gift of his art—a rhythm that will echo through generations.
