Zakir Hussain, a maestro of tabla, percussionist, composer, and even actor, left an indelible mark on the world of music. His fingers danced with quicksilver changes, creating music and magic that transcended borders. Born into a musical family, he started his musical journey at a young age and went on to achieve remarkable feats.

Grammy Wins and Musical Collaborations

In February, Hussain made history by becoming the first Indian musician to receive three Grammys at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. His wins included Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance, and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. These achievements not only brought pride to India but also showcased his exceptional musical talent on a global stage.He was part of various groundbreaking collaborations such as Masters of Percussion, Planet Drum, and Global Drum Project. His work with artists like John McLaughlin, Shankar Mahadevan, and Selvaganesh Vinayakram demonstrated his ability to blend different musical styles and create something truly unique.

Concerto for Tabla and Orchestra

Hussain composed three concertos, with his third being the first-ever concerto for tabla and orchestra. This remarkable piece was premiered in India in 2015, followed by performances in Europe and the UK in 2016, and in the US in 2017. It showcased his innovative approach to combining tabla with a full orchestra, pushing the boundaries of classical music.

Reservations and Personalities

Despite his global success, Hussain had reservations about performing at private gatherings and disliked latecomers. In a conversation with Nasreen Munni Kabir, he emphasized that music should be heard in a concert hall or theater setting, where people can fully appreciate its beauty. He also had a distinct star persona, with his broad smile and boyish good looks adding to his charm.In 1994, he was voted the "sexiest man" by women readers of "Gentleman" magazine, a testament to his popularity and charisma.

Work in Movies and Acting

Besides his work as a tabla player, Hussain composed music for many movies like "Manto" and "Mr and Mrs Iyer". He also made appearances in films such as "Heat and Dust", "The Perfect Murder", and "Saaz", opposite Shabana Azmi. His talent extended beyond the tabla, making him a versatile artist.

Legacy and Awards

Hussain's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He received 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. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.As his fans bid farewell to this extraordinary artist, his music and achievements will always be remembered. "Wah Ustad" became a buzzword that symbolized his greatness, and his impact on the world of music will never be forgotten.