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Ustad Zakir Hussain, Iconic Tabla Maestro, Dies at 73


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Ustad Zakir Hussain, Iconic Tabla Maestro, Dies at 73

Ustad Zakir Hussain, legendary tabla virtuoso, passes away at 73, leaving an unmatched legacy.

Ustad Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla virtuoso who elevated the tabla from a mere accompaniment to a revered art form, passed away at 73. Hussain had been admitted at the hospital for the past two weeks and was later taken to the ICU after his condition worsened. His death marks the end of a remarkable six-decade journey that captivated audiences worldwide with his mastery of rhythm, unmatched talent, and magnetic personality.

For many, it was an iconic presence in the Brooke Bond Taj Mahal advertisement of the 1990s, with his contagious smile and expertise on tabla becoming a part of the cultural memory of an entire generation. The ad- with its unforgettable line: "Wah Ustad nahi, wah Taj boliye" - entered Indian advertising lore as timeless, both for the artistry reflected in Hussain and the aspiration of the brand.

He decided to move to the United States at 18. Here, he stayed on a shoestring budget initially in a bid to try to get into the music scene and blend the West and Indian influences. His pioneering work in making the tabla a solo instrument is highly valued, and he has earned the reputation of having made tabla a respectable art form in the global music arena.

Reminiscing not only for the super skill but for his humility and warmth, Ustad Zakir Hussain will forever inspire musicians and music lovers for generations to come. His contributions to Indian classical music and world music cannot be matched.


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