Music Legends Ricky Kej, Anup Jalota, And Others Mourn The Loss Of Ustad Zakir Hussain

Renowned tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away on Sunday, December 15, in San Francisco, leaving an irreplaceable void in the world of music. The 73-year-old maestro had been under treatment for heart-related complications in the ICU for two weeks, with the official cause of death later confirmed as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease. The family shared the news through Jon Bleicher of Prospect PR.

The Padma Vibhushan awardee’s passing has sent waves of profound grief across the globe. Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians, admirers, and luminaries worldwide, honoring his unmatched contributions to the arts.

Three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej expressed his shock and sorrow, calling Ustad Zakir Hussain "one of the greatest musicians India has ever produced." In an emotional tribute on Instagram, Kej shared a monochrome portrait of the maestro, writing:"Shocked, deeply saddened, and devastated by the passing of the legend Ustad Zakir Hussain @zakirhq9. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for his immense humility, approachable nature, and for being responsible for the careers of numerous musicians. His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations. He left us too soon."

Singer Anup Jalota also mourned the loss, calling it “shocking news.” On his social media platform, he shared,”Can't wrap my head around the news. I'm in pain. Sending love and strength to all his admirers during this difficult time. May we find comfort in his legacy and the joy he brought to our lives."

Music composer Thaman S joined the outpouring of condolences, tweeting,”REST IN PEACE MAESTRO. We lost the Legend Today. #UstadZakirHussain Saab."

Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Ustad Zakir Hussain was the son of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Alla Rakha. From an early age, Zakir displayed prodigious talent, quickly emerging as a standout artist. By his teenage years, he was already sharing the stage with India's most revered classical musicians.

Over his illustrious career, Ustad Zakir Hussain redefined the role of tabla in Indian classical music and pioneered collaborations that brought Indian rhythms to a global audience. He worked with icons like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Vilayat Khan, and co-founded legendary fusion bands such as Shakti with guitarist John McLaughlin and Planet Drum with Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart. His work on the Planet Drum album earned him a Grammy Award, one of four he received during his lifetime.

The government of India honored his unparalleled contributions with the Padma Shri in 1988 and the Padma Bhushan in 2002. As a global ambassador of Indian classical music, his art transcended boundaries, leaving an indelible legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Ustad Zakir Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era, but his rhythms will echo eternally in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.