In 1994, Zakir Hussain, the world-renowned tabla maestro, was voted the “Sexiest Man” by the female readers of Gentleman magazine, surpassing the likes of Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan. This surprising achievement came during a competition that caught even the magazine team off guard. They had initially expected Bachchan to win, but Zakir’s charming persona won over the most votes, a detail he shared in a conversation with author Nasreen Munni Kabir for her book Zakir Hussain: A Life in Music.
A Musical Legend’s Final Days
Zakir Hussain passed away on the morning of December 16, following weeks of illness. He died from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung condition, at a hospital in San Francisco at the age of 73. Zakir’s passing marks the end of an era in the world of classical music. He leaves behind his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their two daughters, Anisa and Isabella Qureshi.
From Humble Beginnings to International Recognition
Born in Mumbai, Zakir’s musical journey began at a young age. He performed his first concert at just seven years old and started touring internationally by the age of 12. His father, Alla Rakha, was a respected tabla virtuoso, which deeply influenced Zakir’s path in music. After completing his education in Mumbai, Zakir moved to the United States in 1970, where his global career flourished.
The Grammy Achievement and Global Acclaim
In February of this year, Zakir Hussain made history as the first Indian musician to win three Grammy Awards at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. He received recognition in the categories of Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance, and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. Over the course of his illustrious career, Zakir earned four Grammys and countless other prestigious accolades, including India’s Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the USA’s National Heritage Fellowship, and Officier in France’s Order of Arts and Letters.
A Musical Maestro Who Belonged to the World
Zakir Hussain was not just a tabla maestro; he was a multifaceted artist—percussionist, composer, and even actor—who transcended borders. A true global icon, he leaves behind a legacy of over 60 years of musical excellence that has inspired and connected audiences around the world. His contributions to both Indian classical music and international music will continue to resonate for generations to come.
Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an official statement from his family confirmed.
