Bollywood stars react to legendary tabla player Zakir Hussain's passing

The world has lost a musical legend with the death of Indian tabla maestro Zakir Hussain who passed away at the age of 73 in the US, leaving behind a legacy that crosses multitudes of borders.  The Indian music community and fans worldwide have been deep affected by his death.

 Bollywood stars and music icons have expressed condolences on social media, mourning the loss of the maestro who brought the tabla to world stage. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their tributes, highlighting Zakir Hussain’s unmatched contribution to music and his influence on generations of artists.

 Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendular shared a moving tribute, saying “The curtains have fallen, but the beats will continue to echo in our hearts forever. If his hands delivered the rhythms, his smiling face and humble persona conveyed a melody - always respectful to everyone around him, putting them at ease. Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain ji. We were fortunate to witness your magic. Your music knew no boundaries, and your loss is deeply felt by music lovers worldwide.”

 Indian actor Riteish Deskmukh also paid tribute saying, “The irreparable loss of Zakir Hussain Sahab is a devastating blow to India and the global music community. Sir, Your music was a gift, a treasure that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Your legacy lives on. May your soul rest in eternal glory, surrounded by the rhythms and melodies. Condolences to the family and loved ones of the legendary Zakir Hussain Sahab.🙏🏽”

Action star Akshay Kumar wrote, “Very pained to know about the sad demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain Saab. He was truly a treasure for our country’s musical heritage. Om Shanti.”

“The maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away a few hours ago. Goodbye Ustadji. The man who made the tabla sexy, who brought an accompanying instrument to the forefront is gone. Deepest condolences to his family, fans and students around the globe," director Hansal Mehta said.

The king of compositions, AR. Rahman penned down: “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un, Zakir Bhai was an inspiration, a towering personality who elevated the tabla to global acclaim 🌟🌍. His loss is immeasurable for all of us. I regret not being able to collaborate with him as much as we did decades ago, though we had planned an album together 🎶. You shall be truly missed. May his family and his countless students worldwide find the strength to bear this immense loss 🤲.”

“India has lost its cultural rhythm keeper 😢 Rest in peace maestro," stated actor Randeep Hoda.

Zakir Hussain's passing has left a deep impact, but his music and influence will keep inspiring generations of musicians around the world. Rest in peace, Ustad Zakir Hussain.

Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 on Sunday 15 December in US after a battle with heart disease.

His manager Nirmala Bachani confirmed the news, stating that Hussain had been admitted to a hospital in San Francisco.

 Zakir Hussain, born on March 09, 1951 in Bombay, was the eldest son of the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Allah Rakha.

He followed his father’s path while also pushing the boundaries of Indian classical music, earning global recognition. His collaboration with renowned international artists helped bring the tabla to a wider audience, solidifying his place as a world music icon.

Zakir’s skill earned him praise for his flawless technique and playful creativity, The New York Times, in a 2009 review of his Carnegie Hall performance, said his "fearsome technique" combined with artistic playfulness made his music both joyful and virtuosic.

 His lightning-fast fingers were compared to a hummingbird's wings, producing a sound that was both detailed and full of energy.