Zakir Hussain
Zakir Hussain is a renowned Indian tabla player and percussionist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. He is a celebrated musician who has won numerous accolades for his talent and dedication to the art form. This article aims to provide an overview of Zakir Hussain’s early life, education, achievements, and contributions to music.
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Early Life of Zakir Hussain
Born into a family steeped in music, Zakir Hussain, the Indian tabla maestro, made his entry into the world on March 9, 1951. He is the eldest son of the renowned tabla player, Alla Rakha. His journey with the tabla started in his childhood years, marking the beginning of a lifelong love affair with rhythm. Hussain received his primary education at St. Michael’s High School in Mahim, later graduating from St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai.
Professional Life of Zakir Hussain
Zakir Hussain’s professional life is a testament to his enormous talent and his unwavering dedication to his craft. His name has graced the credits of numerous music albums, from George Harrison’s “Living in the Material World” in 1973 to Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Powerlight” in 1983. His collaboration with Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead on the album “Planet Drum” earned a Grammy for Best World Music Album in 1992.
The maestro’s talents extended beyond the realm of music, as he made his mark in cinema as well. He was involved in the creation of the soundtrack for several movies, including Francis Coppola’s “Apocalypse Now” and Ismail Merchant’s “In Custody”. Furthermore, he showcased his acting prowess in the Merchant Ivory film “Heat and Dust” in 1983.
His contribution to world music was further highlighted when he co-founded the group Tabla Beat Science with Bill Laswell. He was also invited by President Obama to perform at the International Jazz Day 2016 All-Star Global Concert at the White House.
Zakir Hussain’s association with Taj Mahal Tea has been a significant part of the brand’s identity. For over a decade, his image with the tabla became synonymous with the tea’s quality and tradition. The ad campaign featuring Hussain not only highlighted the premium nature of Taj Mahal Tea but also played a crucial role in popularizing Hindustani classical music, making it accessible to a broader audience. His iconic “Wah Taj!” catchphrase remains etched in the collective memory of tea lovers across India, symbolizing the blend’s unparalleled craftsmanship and authenticity.
Awards and Recognitions
Zakir Hussain’s expertise and passion for music have earned him an array of awards and recognitions. The Government of India honored him with the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2023. Besides, he also received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1990 and the United States National Endowment for the Arts’ National Heritage Fellowship in 1999.
Personal Life
The rhythm of Hussain’s personal life is as captivating as his professional endeavors. He is married to Antonia Minnecola, a Kathak dancer, and teacher, who also manages his career. The couple has two daughters, Anisa and Isabella, who are pursuing careers in video production and dance, respectively. Hussain also has two brothers, Taufiq and Fazal, both of whom have chosen to walk the path of music. His love for music and dedication to his craft are so profound that he has made a firm resolution not to perform at social events, believing music should be the sole focus of an event.
The tabla maestro, four-time Grammy award winner, and Padma Vibushan recipient Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away in San Francisco on December 15, 2024, at the age of 73. His passing has left a significant void in the world of classical music. Ustad Hussain died of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Parents’ Name and Family
Zakir Hussain was born to tabla player Alla Rakha. In addition to his two brothers, Taufiq and Fazal, he had a sister named Khurshid, and two other sisters, Bilquis and Razia, who passed away. Tragically, his brother Munawar also passed away at a young age following a dog attack.
Age
As of 2024, Zakir Hussain, with his age standing at 73.
Salary and Net Worth
While the exact figures of Zakir Hussain’s earnings and net worth remain undisclosed, it is without a doubt that his contributions to music and cinema over the decades have established him as a figure of significant influence and success in his field.
