Tributes Pour In For Ustad Zakir Hussain: Kala Ramnath, Hamza Kazi, Tanishk Bagchi Remember The maestro

Ustad Zakir Hussain, the tabla maestro who took Indian classical music to the global stage, leaves behind a timeless legacy.With his extraordinary talent, visionary approach, and gift for bridging cultures, he redefined the global view of Indian percussion, turning it into a universal language of rhythm and connection.

A Global Pioneer:

From his earliest performances, Zakir Hussain’s artistry stood out as a celebration of Indian classical music. Rabindra Narayan, MD & President of PTC Network, encapsulates his impact: “A true ‘Ustad,’ Zakir Hussain was amongst those legends who made the world aware about the wonders of Indian Classical music and how it could be fused with world music while still retaining its essential ethos.”

Hussain’s collaborations with international legends such as John McLaughlin, Mickey Hart, and Herbie Hancock showcased his ability to blend the intricate rhythms of Indian classical music with global styles like jazz, rock, and world music. He elevated the tabla from being an accompaniment to a lead voice, captivating audiences across the world.

Turning the Tabla Into a Superstar

Bollywood composer and singer Tanishk Bagchi beautifully describes Hussain’s impact,”Ustad Zakir Hussain made the tabla a global icon, blending Indian classical vibes with world music. His rhythms broke barriers, proving percussion speaks a universal language.” Whether performing solo or collaborating with international musicians, Hussain’s rhythms bridged cultural divides, making the tabla a symbol of India’s rich musical heritage on the world stage. Bagchi adds, “Zakir Hussain turned the tabla into a global superstar, connecting cultures with pure rhythm magic.”

Opening Doors for Indian Musicians:

Ustad Zakir Hussain was not only a performer but also a visionary who expanded opportunities for Indian musicians. Violinist Kala Ramnath reflects: “The global perception of not just Indian percussion but Indian music itself has changed. Today he has opened doors and avenues to musicians like me who get to work with the best of musicians from different genres. And Indian music is looked upon with great respect by one and all outside India.”

Hussain’s efforts to unify Hindustani and Carnatic music were equally groundbreaking. Ramnath recounts his collaboration with her and Jayanthi Kumaresh in Triveni, a project that seamlessly blended the two streams of Indian classical music. “He always told me to look at music as one and not as two streams of Hindustani and Karnatic,” she recalls.

A Personal Connection to Rhythm:

Hamza Kazi, Head of the Music Division at Dharma Cornerstone Agency, fondly remembers the profound impact Zakir Hussain had on him personally and on the music world at large:“Today with a heavy heart, I remember Zakir Ji, a maestro who was more than a legend. He was a source of inspiration for musicians across the world, including me. His incredible journey of life and unparalleled talent was a beacon of love and hope for millions.”

Sharing childhood memories, Kazi says, “I fondly remember a day when my mother, a huge fan of Zakir Ji, played a tape recording of his performance. Even as a child, I was smitten by his spectacular artistry. His face beamed with radiance and joy as he played—he wasn’t just performing music; it was his soul speaking through the instrument.”

Kazi highlights Hussain’s global influence with a personal anecdote: “One of the highlights for me was discovering that Danny Carey, the drummer from Tool and someone I deeply admire, was profoundly influenced by Zakir Ji. Knowing that an American rock drummer was a die-hard fan of an Indian classical musician made me so proud. It reinforced the universal appeal of Zakir Ji.”

He also recalls attending Abba Ji Ki Barsi, an event hosted by Zakir Hussain to honor his father, Ustad Allah Rakha: “Watching him curate and perform at these gatherings, where legendary musicians came together to pay tribute, was nothing short of an honor. Today as I remember him, I strongly believe that legends are born to live forever—they never really leave us.”

Eternal Inspiration:

Ustad Zakir Hussain’s departure leaves a void in the world of music, but his spirit and artistry remain eternal. His pioneering contributions have inspired countless musicians, broken cultural barriers, and elevated Indian classical music to global recognition.

As Kazi beautifully puts it, “Although the music industry will experience a deep void, his blessed soul and music will always stay eternal in the world of classical music. Just like he commemorated his father’s legacy with grace and passion, I am certain there will be similar events to honor his memory. His music will continue to inspire, and his legacy will live on forever in the hearts of millions.”

Ustad Zakir Hussain’s rhythms will forever echo in the hearts of music lovers worldwide, reminding us of the power of music to connect souls, transcend boundaries, and create magic.