The world bid farewell to legendary tabla virtuoso and composer Zakir Hussain, who passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco. According to his family, the iconic musician had been battling idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest tabla players in history, Zakir Hussain leaves behind a towering legacy that will continue to inspire music enthusiasts and artists globally.
Zakir Hussain’s Life of Musical Excellence
Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Zakir Hussain was the eldest son of Ustad Alla Rakha, himself a celebrated tabla maestro. Immersed in music from a young age, Zakir’s extraordinary talent was evident early on.
He pursued his education at St. Michael’s High School in Mahim and later graduated from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, balancing academics with his blossoming musical career.
Zakir Hussain’s impact on Indian classical music and the global music scene was unparalleled. A recipient of numerous awards, his exceptional contributions earned him five Grammy Awards. Over the course of his illustrious career, he also made a mark in cinema, contributing to 12 films as a composer or performer.
What Was Zakir Hussain’s Net Worth?
The Government of India recognized his immense contributions with the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2023, honoring him as one of the finest ambassadors of Indian classical music.
Hussain’s talent brought him not only global recognition but also considerable wealth. Reports suggest his net worth was around USD 1 million (approximately ₹8.48 crore). For live performances, he reportedly charged between ₹5 to ₹10 lakh per concert, reflecting the high regard in which his art was held.
Zakir Hussain married Antonia Minnecola, a Kathak dancer and teacher, blending their artistic worlds into a harmonious union. Together, they raised two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi, continuing their family’s artistic legacy.
In addition to his musical brilliance, Hussain ventured into cinema, showcasing his versatility. He appeared in films such as Saaz and Heat and Dust and most recently in the 2024 release Monkey Man. These projects demonstrated his ability to seamlessly adapt his artistic talents to various forms of creative expression.
Zakir Hussain’s contributions extended far beyond his performances. His collaboration with global artists and mentorship to the next generation of musicians ensured that Indian classical music resonated with audiences worldwide. Under the guidance of legends like Pandit Shiv Kumar, he honed his skills and passed on his knowledge, further enriching the tradition of tabla playing.
The maestro was admitted to a hospital in San Francisco on Sunday after experiencing heart-related complications. Despite his immense resilience, he succumbed to the illness hours later. His manager, Nirmala Bachani, confirmed that he had been battling blood-pressure-related issues in his final days.
Zakir Hussain’s life was a testament to the power of dedication, discipline, and artistic passion. His tabla rhythms and compositions will continue to inspire generations, keeping his extraordinary legacy alive in the hearts of music lovers across the globe.
