The Musical Odyssey Of Zakir Hussain

In the world of Indian classical music, few artists have woven as intricate and transformative a narrative as Zakir Hussain, the tabla maestro who passed away at the age of 73 on December 15, 2024. Born on 9  March 1951, Hussain was destined for musical greatness from the moment he entered the world. In an interview, Hussain mentioned his father, the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Allah Rakha, welcomed his newborn son not with lullabies, but with the rhythmic recitation of tabla bols.

From his earliest days, Hussain was immersed in a musical environment that would transcend conventional boundaries. In an interview with PTI, Hussain explained his father’s approach, instead of merely teaching, he invited the instrument to speak, to express itself.

The formation of the band Shakti in 1973 marked a pivotal moment in Hussain's career. Collaborating with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violin player L. Shankar, and percussionist T. H. "Vikku" Vinayakram, Hussain helped create a musical collective that was far more than a band—it was a cultural dialogue. Initially performing under the name Turiyananda Sangit, the group sought to bridge the gap between  Western, Hindustani, and Carnatic musical traditions.

Hussain's mastery of jugalbandi—the art of musical dialogue between artists or instruments—became his signature.

His global recognition reached a milestone in 2016 when he became the first Indian artist invited to perform at the White House during President Barack Obama's tenure.

Hussain's collaboration with various international musicians, particularly in the jazz world, showcased the versatility of Indian classical music. In his open words, music is about discovering the "tonalities" and allowing each area of the instrument to "express itself."

Dr. Samidha Vedabala and Yadav Sharma note in the “Role of Ustad Zakir Hussain in Internationalisation of Indian Classical Music” that technological advancements in sound systems have transformed live music performances and recordings, but Hussain has remained at the forefront, adapting and innovating. His music has not just survived these changes—but thrived, becoming a bridge between traditional and contemporary musical landscapes.