The Humility of Maestro ‘Zakir Hussain’

Zakir Hussain  (9 Mar1951- 15 Dec 2024)

The world has lost a true legend. Zakir Hussain’s artistry transcended borders, uniting cultures through the universal language of music. For over five decades, his tabla spoke to hearts around the globe, redefining the possibilities of rhythm and sound. His dedication as a mentor, educator, and cultural ambassador ensured his influence would extend far beyond his lifetime. He was a four-time Grammy Award winner.

Songeeta with Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain

It’s still fresh in my mind—when Shivpreet’s college senior, Songeeta Guha, introduced us to Zakir Sahib in a Berkeley School Auditorium in 1994. He was busy setting up his various tablas on the stage himself. Songeeta Guha was herself a dedicated disciple, having honed her tabla artistry under the guidance of her mentor and Guru, Ustad Zakir Hussain. It was a reflection of Zakir Sahib’s profound influence as both a performer and a teacher, leaving behind a legacy that shaped countless musicians, including Songeeta who accompanied Shivpreet in their college days

Ustad at its best

Meeting on the stage was a truly memorable moment—witnessing such humility in someone of Zakir Hussain’s stature. It’s often the mark of a truly great artist that they remain grounded despite their prominence. Seeing him meticulously arrange his own instruments reflected not just his unwavering dedication to the craft, but also his respect for every detail of the performance, no matter how small.

His passing at 73 is a profound loss, but his legacy remains unmatched. The music he created and the inspiration he instilled in countless artists will continue to echo for generations. 

Songeeta accompanying Shivpreet in ‘Asha’ in 1995

Zakir Hussain’s contributions extended beyond the stage, as he was deeply respected in academic circles as well. He was named an Old Dominion Fellow by the Humanities Council at Princeton University, where he served as a full professor in the music department during the 2005–2006 semester. Additionally, he shared his knowledge as a visiting professor at Stanford University, further solidifying his role as an educator and mentor.

In May 2022, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to the field of music, Mumbai University conferred upon him the honorary Doctor of Law (LLD) degree. These honors reflect not only his musical genius but also his dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of music across disciplines and generations.