Tabla Ustad Zakir Hussain Secures Three Grammy Awards, Makes History at 66th Grammy

Renowned tabla player and music composer Ustad Zakir Hussain clinched three awards at the 66th Grammy Awards, held in the United States on Monday, marking a historic achievement. The Mumbai-born percussionist secured the prestigious ‘Best Global Music Performance’ award for his contribution to ‘Pashto.’ In his heartfelt acceptance speech, the 72-year-old musician expressed gratitude to the Academy, fellow musicians Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, and Rakesh Chaurasia, and emphasized the importance of family and love in their musical journey.

Hussain’s collaborative project ‘As We Speak,’ featuring Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, and Rakesh Chaurasia, earned him the Grammy for the ‘Best Contemporary Instrumental Album’ category. The Academy celebrated their achievement, acknowledging the album’s excellence in the instrumental realm.

Adding another accolade to his remarkable night, Ustad Zakir Hussain, a member of the Jazz group ‘Shakti,’ contributed to the group’s win in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category for their latest release, ‘This Moment.’ The album showcased the talents of musicians like John McLaughlin, Shankar Mahadevan, V Selvaganesh, and Ganesh Rajagopalan.

Indian fans took to social media to celebrate Zakir Hussain’s Grammy victories, expressing enthusiasm and admiration for the legendary musician. Music composer Ricky Kej, who attended the ceremony, shared his excitement on social media, highlighting Hussain’s historic feat.

Despite the remarkable success, Hussain and his collaborators faced a setback in the ‘Best Instrumental Composition’ category, where John Williams secured the Grammy for ‘Helena’s Theme.’ The nominated composition by Zakir Hussain, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, and Rakesh Chaurasia, titled ‘Motion,’ did not secure the award.

The 66th Grammy Awards ceremony, held in Los Angeles on Monday, showcased the global recognition of Ustad Zakir Hussain’s exceptional contributions to the world of music.