Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain passes away at 73
Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain died at a hospital in San Francisco from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at the age of 73, his family said; PM Narendra Modi condoled his death on 16 December 2024.
Summary
Ustad Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla maestro, died at a hospital in San Francisco from complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, his family said in a statement confirmed in India on 16 December 2024. He was 73 and had been hospitalised for about two weeks before his condition deteriorated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his passing on 16 December 2024, calling him a true genius who revolutionised the world of Indian classical music, brought the tabla to the global stage and blended Indian classical traditions with global music, becoming an icon of cultural unity.
Key facts
- Died
- At a hospital in San Francisco, aged 73
- Cause
- Complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (family statement)
- Known for
- Tabla; took the tabla to the global stage
- PM condolence
- 16 December 2024: 'a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music'
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Ustad Zakir Hussain, whose death the Prime Minister condoled on 16 December 2024, was a maestro of which instrument?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Tabla
PIB (PMO): the Prime Minister condoled the passing of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, saying he brought the tabla to the global stage.
According to his family, Ustad Zakir Hussain died in San Francisco from complications of which condition?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
The Hindu and Hindustan Times: his family said Zakir Hussain died at a hospital in San Francisco from complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, at the age of 73.