Ustad Zakir Hussain Death LIVE Updates: Politicians, Music Industry Mourn Demise Of Tabla Maestro

The Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah paid his tribute to the Tabla maestro and wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, a true legend whose rhythms transcended borders and united hearts. His contribution to Indian classical music and global art is unparalleled. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers."

Ace cricketer Shikhar Dhawan wrote on X, “The world has lost a true gem today. Ustad Zakir Hussain’s legacy will live on forever. Rest in peace, Sir. 🙏” 

Popular Malayalam actor Mohanlal shared a photo of Zakir Hussain and wrote on X, “Ustad Zakir Hussain’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the world of music. His rhythms united hearts across borders. My deepest condolences to his family and admirers.” 
 

Sunny Deol took to his Instagram account to share a photo of the Tabla Maestro and pen a note on his demise. 

Rajeev Chandrasekhar also penned a note for Zakir Hussain's demise. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Deeply saddened by the passing of #UstadZakirHussain. He redefined art of tabla and brought it in focus, in both Indian classical and world music. His legacy will live on forever. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.” 
 

Spiritual Guru Sadhguru also mourned the loss of Zakir Hussain. Sharing a photo of the Tabla Maestro he wrote, “From the fantastic times of fusion in Shakti, Zakir had rhythm in his bones, love for his art in his heart and brought joy to millions across the world. He will always be remembered with love, pride and gratitude for his Devotion to his Art. Deepest condolences & Blessings to all bereaved by his passing." 

Member of Delhi Legislative Assembly Manish Sisodia penned a note for Zakir Hussain on his demise.
 

Veteran Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan penned a note for Zakir Hussain and wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “T 5224 - .. a very sad day”. The actor made the post late at night and did not mention any other details. 
 

Actor Akshay Kumar condoled the death of Zakir Hussain and wrote, “Very pained to know about the sad demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain Saab. He was truly a treasure for our country’s musical heritage. Om Shanti 🙏” 
 

The actress took to her social media account to pen a note for Zakir Hussain and mourn his passing. 

Apart from four Grammys, Hussain was the recipient of countless awards and honours, including Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the USA's National Heritage Fellowship and Officier in France's Order of Arts and Letters.

In 1988, Hussain became a household name as the face of the Taj Mahal Tea brand. In a 33-second TV commercial, the ustad was shown immersed in his tabla riyaaz, only to later sip on a cup of Taj tea. The voiceover, by the famous Harish Bhimani, would then compliment Hussain's skills saying "Wah Ustad, wah!". To which, the percussionist would reply: "Arre huzoor, wah Taj boliye!" That “Wah Taj” became an oft-used buzzword for many an occasion, and still remembered all these years later.

Actor turned politician Kamal Haasan took to his X account to pen a note for the Tabla Maestro. He wrote, "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." 
 

Visuals from the Tabla Maestro's residence in Mumbai are going viral. Zakir Hussain and his family were in the USA at the time of his death.

Sharing a photo of the Tabla legend shaking hands with her father Randhir Kapoor, Kareena wrote, “Maestro, Forever”. 

Representing the family Jon Bleicher shared a letter confirming the passing away of Zakir Hussain. 
 

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) actor Anupam Kher shared a video of Zakir Hussain and wrote in Hindi, “I don't know how long my heart will remain sad! I don't know how long my voice will remain silent!! Goodbye my friend. You have left this world! You will remain in our memories for centuries! You too... your talent too... and your childlike smile that touches the depths of our hearts!! 💔💔💔#ZakirHussain #Tabla #Greatest” 
 

Anand Mahindra took to his social media account to share a video of Zakir Hussain with the message, "The rhythm of India paused today…In tribute."

Kerela Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote on X, "Ustad Zakir Hussain was instrumental in popularising Indian music across the globe, serving as a beacon of India’s rich musical heritage. A true custodian of classical traditions, his contributions to the arts remain unparalleled. His passing is a monumental loss to culture and humanity. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones."

Zakir Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Born on March 9, 1951, he is the son of legendary tabla master Ustad Alla Rakha.

 

The 73-year-old tabla maestro passed away due to lung-related ailments. He had been hospitalised for the last two weeks and was later taken to the ICU after his condition deteriorated. Hussain died due to complications arising out of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the family said in a statement.
 

The music legend breathed his last at a San Francisco hospital at the age of 73.