{"id":195942,"date":"2024-12-16T04:51:39","date_gmt":"2024-12-16T04:51:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.talkwithrattan.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/16\/when-ustad-zakir-hussain-stood-by-his-friend-pandit-shivkumar-sharma-even-during-his-final-journey\/"},"modified":"2024-12-16T04:51:39","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T04:51:39","slug":"when-ustad-zakir-hussain-stood-by-his-friend-pandit-shivkumar-sharma-even-during-his-final-journey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.talkwithrattan.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/16\/when-ustad-zakir-hussain-stood-by-his-friend-pandit-shivkumar-sharma-even-during-his-final-journey\/","title":{"rendered":"When Ustad Zakir Hussain stood by his friend Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, even during his final journey"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Zakir Hussain<\/a>, the legendary tabla maestro<\/a> and one of the most revered figures in Indian classical music<\/a>, passed away on Monday in San Francisco at the age of 73. His family confirmed the news, stating, \u201cZakir Hussain, one of the world\u2019s most transcendent musicians, passed away from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.\u201d Known for revolutionising the global perception of Indian classical music, Hussain\u2019s demise leaves a void in the music world. <\/p>\n

Tributes poured in from political leaders, industrialists, and fans across the globe, honouring his monumental contributions to the art of tabla.<\/p>\n

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Zakir Hussain\u2019s Poignant Farewell to Pandit Shivkumar Sharma<\/h2>\n

On May 10, 2022, the world bid adieu to legendary santoor virtuoso and composer Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, who passed away at the age of 84 in Mumbai due to a heart attack. The maestro, who had also been battling renal ailments, was cremated with full state honours on May 11, surrounded by family, friends, and admirers. Among those grieving was tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, whose moving tribute as a pallbearer encapsulated decades of camaraderie, mutual respect, and a shared journey in Indian classical music.<\/p>\n

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\u2014 SanjuktaChoudh5 (@SanjuktaChoudh5) <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

The image of Zakir Hussain standing solemnly by the pyre, his grief palpable even behind his mask, resonated deeply with onlookers. Twitter users called it a “poignant” moment, highlighting the depth of their friendship. One user wrote, \u201cUstad Zakir Hussain at Pandit Shivkumar Sharma’s funeral, sending off a friend of many decades. Together they created magic on stage on numerous occasions. Never seen a more poignant photograph.\u201dHussain\u2019s role as pallbearer symbolised his unwavering support for Sharma, mirroring their dynamic during countless performances. Much like their concerts, where Hussain lowered the volume of his tabla to complement Sharma\u2019s delicate santoor, his actions at the funeral demonstrated the silent language of respect and empathy they shared over decades.<\/p>\n

Hussain\u2019s grief at Sharma\u2019s funeral reflected more than personal loss; it was a tribute to an enduring legacy that shaped generations of musicians. As Sharma\u2019s son Rahul led the rituals and his other son Rohit stood by, Hussain\u2019s silent vigil near the tricolour-draped bier captured the emotional weight of the moment.<\/p>\n

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A Collaboration Built on Harmony<\/h2>\n

Zakir Hussain and Pandit Shivkumar Sharma\u2019s association transcended mere professional collaboration. The two shared a rare musical and personal rapport, exemplified during a memorable concert in 1979, marking the 25th year of the santoor\u2019s inclusion in Indian classical music. Performing Raag Kirwani together at Mumbai’s Rang Bhawan, their rendition remains a masterpiece, reflecting the warmth and synergy they shared.<\/p>\n

The bond extended beyond the duo. Hussain\u2019s father, Ustad Alla Rakha, had also accompanied Sharma during his early career. As Sharma introduced the santoor to the classical stage, Alla Rakha<\/a> was instrumental in shaping its rhythmic complement. This connection between families strengthened the respect Hussain held for the maestro, a decade his senior.<\/p>\n

Also Read: <\/strong>‘Wah Taj’: When Ustad Zakir Hussain brewed an unforgettable legacy for tea lovers. Watch viral ad<\/a><\/p>\n

The Dogra Connection and Musical Roots<\/h2>\n

The affinity between Sharma and Ustad Alla Rakha ran deep, rooted in their shared heritage as Dogras from Jammu. Sharma once recalled a concert in Chicago where, after a successful performance, he remarked in Dogri, \u201cBada achha programme hoyiya (It was a great programme).\u201d Alla Rakha immediately responded, \u201cIt happened because two Dogra musicians performed together.\u201d<\/p>\n

Their camaraderie epitomised the unity that Hindustani classical music fosters. Despite its own challenges, this tradition has remained a space of assimilation and mutual respect. As Zakir Hussain reflected this spirit during Sharma\u2019s funeral, his actions reminded observers of the unifying force of music, transcending communal and cultural divides.<\/p>\n

Also Read: <\/strong>Zakir Hussain: The tabla maestro who touched the world with his rhythms<\/a><\/p>\n

A Humble Start to Global Stardom<\/h2>\n

Zakir Hussain\u2019s early years were marked by determination and modesty. He studied at St Michael\u2019s School and later graduated from St Xavier\u2019s College in Mumbai. Travelling across the city by crowded local trains, he often carried his tabla with him. If no seat was available, he would spread newspapers on the floor, lay down, and sleep with his instruments in his lap, ensuring their safety.<\/p>\n

Despite humble beginnings, Hussain\u2019s dedication to music was unshakable. Under the tutelage of his father, he honed his craft, eventually stepping out of Alla Rakha\u2019s shadow to establish his own identity as a tabla virtuoso.<\/p>\n

Also Read: <\/strong>Zakir Hussain no more, family of Tabla maestro confirms<\/a><\/p>\n

Innovating Tradition Through Fusion<\/h2>\n

Hussain was not only a master of Indian classical music but also a pioneer of fusion. One of his most groundbreaking projects was the 1973 collaboration Shakti, alongside English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH “Vikku” Vinayakram. This unique blend of Indian classical music and jazz set a new standard for fusion, captivating audiences worldwide.<\/p>\n

Hussain\u2019s career also included collaborations with a wide range of Indian and international artists, redefining the possibilities of the tabla. Over six decades, his performances inspired both traditionalists and contemporary musicians, proving that Indian classical music could thrive on a global stage.<\/p>\n

Achievements and Honours<\/h2>\n

Throughout his career, Zakir Hussain received India\u2019s highest civilian honours. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan<\/a> in 2023. Internationally, he won five Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards<\/a> earlier this year. These accolades reflected his unparalleled contributions to music and his ability to bring Indian rhythms into global conversations.<\/p>\n

Also Read: Tributes pour in from all walks of life for Ustad Zakir Hussain<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

A Heartfelt Goodbye<\/h2>\n

Zakir Hussain passed away due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis after spending two weeks in hospital care, including time in the ICU. His family initially dismissed reports of his death on Sunday but confirmed the news on Monday. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco mourned his passing, stating, \u201cHis legacy will live on through his music and the lives he influenced.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hussain\u2019s influence extended beyond music. Political leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Nitin Gadkari, industrialists like Gautam Adani and Anand Mahindra, and countless others took to social media to express their condolences.<\/p>\n

A Legacy to Inspire Generations<\/h2>\n

Zakir Hussain\u2019s journey, from a young boy protecting his tabla on Mumbai trains to a globally celebrated icon, serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians. His father\u2019s philosophy, rooted in the spiritual and cultural significance of music, was carried forward in Hussain\u2019s life and work.<\/p>\n

As a custodian of his father\u2019s legacy and a pioneer in his own right, Hussain elevated the tabla to unprecedented heights. His story and music will continue to inspire generations, proving that dedication and passion can turn rhythms into prayers and melodies into eternal legacies.<\/p>\n

Also Read: Last Mohican in world of classical music: Musicians condole death of Zakir Hussain<\/a><\/strong>
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