Updated
Mumbai, Dec 16 (IANS): Reports of the demise of legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, that spread like wildfire on Sunday night now appears to be inaccurate.
As the news spread rapidly, an X user claiming to be Ustad Zakir Hussain's nephew posted: "I am Zakir Hussain's nephew and he has not passed away. We ask for prayers for my Uncle's health. Can you please remove this misinformation? He is in a serious condition and we ask for all his fans around the world to pray for his health."
Another publication quoted his sister, Khurshid Aalia, who said that Zakir Hussain is alive but in a very critical condition.
Earlier reports claimed that Zakir Hussain passed away at a San Francisco hospital due to heart ailments.
Zakir Hussain's death news was shared by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting as well. Many leaders, including Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi, posted condolence messages for him.
Earlier, it was learned through Hussain's manager Nirmala Bachani that Zakir Hussain had been admitted to a hospital in San Francisco after experiencing heart-related problems.
Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla player, was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
As the eldest son of the illustrious tabla player Allah Rakha, he was naturally inclined towards music from a very young age. He completed his initial education from St. Michael's High School in Mahim, Mumbai. Later, he graduated from St. Xavier's College.
Hussain married Antonia Minnecola, a Kathak dancer and teacher. They have two daughters Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
Zakir Hussain also acted in a few movies including 'Saaz', 'Heat and Dust'. His most recent film 'Monkey Man' released in 2024.
According to a few reports he was offered to play Salim's role in 'Mughal-E-Azam' which later went to Dilip Kumar.
Earlier report
Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passes away at 73
Mumbai, Dec 15(IANS): Renowned tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain (73) succumbed to heart-related issues on Sunday, December 15.
Hussain's manager, Nirmala Bachani, said in a statement that the maestro was battling blood-pressure related problems.
Earlier, it was learned that Zakir Hussain had been admitted to a hospital in San Francisco after experiencing heart-related problems.
Ustaad Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro, was born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. As the eldest son of the illustrious tabla player Allah Rakha, he was naturally drawn towards music from a young age. He completed his primary education from St. Michael's High School in Mahim, Mumbai, and later graduated from St. Xavier's College and further solidified his foundation in music and academics.
Hussain married Antonia Minnecola, a Kathak dancer and teacher. They have two daughters Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
Zakir Hussain also acted in few movies including ‘Saaz’ , ‘Heat and Dust’. His most recent film ‘Monkey Man’ released in 2024.
Industrialist Harsh Goenka conveyed his condolence over Zakir Hussain's passing on social media, saying: "The world falls silent as the tabla loses its maestro. Ustad Zakir Hussain, a rhythmic genius who brought the soul of India to global stages, has left us. I feel privileged to have known him through his connection with HMV and to have witnessed his incredible performance at our home. His beats will echo eternally."
Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore wrote “Ustad Zakir Hussain’s extraordinary mastery of the tabla has created a timeless legacy in the world of music. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless admirers whose lives he touched with his artistry. His rhythms will echo in our hearts forever.”
Minister of Tourism of Gujarat Mulubhai Bera wrote The rhythm of heaven just got a little more vibrant. Farewell, Zakir Hussain. Your music will continue to be a blessing to humanity.