Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain's passing on Sunday left a massive void in the Indian musical space. A national treasure who enthralled thousands with his sheer brilliance in tabla and stunning on-stage performance, Hussain, born son of the legendary Alla Rakha Khan in 1951 in Mumbai, not only carried the legacy of his great father but also popularised the ancient Indian percussion instrument across the globe, sometimes with his East-West fusions.
On Sunday, various Indian celebrities paid to the musical genius. Music composer Ricky Kej remembered Hussain for his "immense humility and approachable nature," adding that he was "one of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced. Along with being the best himself, Zakirji was known for being responsible for the careers of numerous musicians, who are now forced to reckon with themselves. He was a treasure trove of skill and knowledge and always shared and encouraged the entire music community through collaborations and his actions. His legacy will live on forever, and his influence will be felt for generations. He left us too soon."
Actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan wrote on his X handle: "Zakir Bhai! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art. Goodbye and Thank you."
Actor Sunny Deol called the passing of the Padma Vibushan recipient a "monumental loss to India and the world of music. His contribution to music transcended borders. His legacy will forever resonate through the beats of his tabla. Rest in peace, maestro."
Actor Riteish Deshmukh wrote, "The irreparable loss of Zakir Hussain Sahab is a devastating blow to India and the global music community. Sir, Your music was a gift, a treasure that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Your legacy will live on. May your soul rest in eternal glory, surrounded by the rhythms and melodies. Condolences to the family and loved ones of the legendary Zakir Hussain Sahab."
Composer A.R. Rahman said, "Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim. His loss is immeasurable for all of us. I regret not being able to collaborate with him as much as we did decades ago, though we had planned an album together. You shall be truly missed. May his family and countless students worldwide find the strength to bear this immense loss."
Singer and composer Shubha Mudgal and tabla artiste Aneesh Pradhan wrote, "It's not often that one gets to experience a phenomenon. The passing of tabla maestro Zakir Hussain is the passing away of a phenomenon - a phenomenon in the world of music. Our deepest condolences to his family and students."
