Zakir Hussain 'ALIVE', claims unverified X account as confusing deepens amid multiple reports

Many media reports of tabla master Zakir Hussain's death inundated social media on Sunday night, prompting waves of condolence messages from politicians, celebrities, and fans all across the world. However, his nephew, Ameer Aulia, quickly rejected the charges and called for an end to the disinformation.

“My uncle Zakir Hussain is very much alive,” Aulia wrote on an unverified X handle. “We ask the news media to stop posting false information. He is in a serious condition, and we urge his fans around the world to pray for his recovery.”

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According to his close friend, famous flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, the iconic musician, famed for his unsurpassed mastery of the tabla, was admitted to a San Francisco hospital for cardiac problems.

Hussain had been suffering from blood pressure issues and was taken to the ICU as his health deteriorated. 

Who is Zakir Hussain?

Zakir Hussain was one of India's most famous musicians, known for his exceptional tabla-playing abilities and his contributions to music as a composer and producer. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mahim, Mumbai, to tabla masters Alla Rakha and Bavi Begum, Zakir had a natural flair for music at a young age.

He began learning the mridangam, another traditional percussion instrument, from his father when he was three years old, and by the age of twelve, he was playing in concerts.

Hussain established himself as a rhythm master throughout time, earning international acclaim for his technical skill and originality in classical and fusion music. He was instrumental in promoting Indian classical music worldwide and cooperated with several well-known Western performers, including the renowned Beatles.

About Zakir Hussain's work and achievements

Zakir Hussain rose to worldwide prominence and was well-known in Indian classical and global music. Hussain, one of India's most recognised classical musicians, received the coveted Padma Shri award in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Hussain became the first Indian artist to win three Grammys in one night at the 66th Grammys in 2024. This cemented his global music career. Throughout his six-decade career, the guitarist has worked with several renowned Indian and foreign performers.

However, his revolutionary 1973 effort with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and drummer TH 'Vikku' Vinayakram transformed music by combining Indian classical traditions with jazz elements, resulting in a hitherto unknown fusion sound.

Zakir Hussain's life showed the power of devotion, passion, and cultural contact beyond music. He mentored many brilliant musicians and left an indelible mark on music education. His diverse collaborations in jazz, rock, Indian classical, and film soundtracks made him a champion of global musical harmony.

Zakir's death ends an era in Indian classical music, but his legacy will inspire future musicians. His talent and contribution to global music will be remembered forever.