Learn About Zakir Hussain: Age, Birthdate, Zodiac Sign & More

Early Life

Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in India, into a family of musicians. His father, Alla Rakha, was a renowned tabla player, and it was under his guidance that Zakir began his musical journey at a very young age. By the time he was a teenager, Zakir had already begun performing professionally, showcasing his exceptional talent and skill on the tabla.

Music Career

At the age of nineteen, Zakir Hussain embarked on an international music career that would eventually make him one of the most respected and celebrated percussionists in the world. His mastery of the tabla, an Indian percussion instrument, set him apart from his contemporaries and garnered him critical acclaim.

Collaborations and Achievements

  • Throughout his career, Zakir Hussain has collaborated with a diverse range of musicians, blending Hindustani classical music with jazz, fusion, and world music genres. One of his most notable collaborations was with American bassist Bill Laswell, with whom he founded the world music band Tabla Beat Science.
  • In 1983, Zakir Hussain music directed and acted in the film "Heat and Dust," showcasing his multifaceted talents beyond music.
  • His accolades include the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Padma Bhushan, and the Grammy Award for World Music, recognizing his contribution to the global music scene.
  • In 1999, Zakir Hussain was honored with the United States Endowment for the Arts' National Heritage Fellowship, solidifying his status as a master percussionist and cultural ambassador.

Legacy and Influence

Over the years, Zakir Hussain has inspired generations of musicians with his innovative approach to traditional Indian music and his seamless fusion of different musical styles. His dynamic performances and unparalleled virtuosity on the tabla have earned him a dedicated fan base worldwide, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest percussionists of his time.

Personal Life

Despite his busy touring schedule and numerous artistic pursuits, Zakir Hussain remains grounded in his roots and values, often acknowledging the influence of his father and other musical mentors on his artistic development. His commitment to preserving and promoting Indian classical music has endeared him to audiences around the globe.

Throughout his illustrious career, Zakir Hussain has continued to push the boundaries of traditional music, collaborating with artists from diverse cultural backgrounds and exploring new musical horizons. His passion for music, coupled with his unwavering dedication to his craft, has established him as a true maestro of rhythm and melody.