He was an institution in himself—a gharana

Words are not enough, nor can they ever fully express the profound sorrow that fills my heart with the loss of Zakir Bhai.

- Ustad Amjad Ali Khan

Ustad Zakir Hussain was not just a maestro of the tabla; he was a phenomenon, a living legend whose presence in the world of music transcended boundaries. His artistry, his humility, his kindness—they were beyond comparison.

I feel privileged to have had the honor of performing with him from 1974 onwards, at a time when Ustad Allah Rakha, his father, was still with us. From the first time I heard him play, I knew Zakir Bhai was not just a talented tabla player; he was a prodigy, a force of nature whose music would shape the future of Indian classical music.

Zakir Bhai's tabla playing was not just about technique; it was a language that spoke directly to the soul. His rhythms were like the heartbeat of the universe, full of life and depth. He was a genius, but what made him truly exceptional was the way he brought his music to life. He gave the tabla a new voice, a new energy, and a new meaning. He bridged the gap between East and West, reaching out to the world with his collaborations with musicians across the globe. He did more than just play the tabla; he connected people through his music. And that, to me, was his true brilliance.

Zakir Bhai was not just a musician; he was an institution in himself. He was a gharana, but he didn't just belong to any one tradition—he became the face of tabla, not only in India but across the world. Thousands of young tabla players looked up to him. They saw in him not just a teacher, but a path, a way forward. The influence he had on the world of tabla is immeasurable. He inspired so many, gave so much, and yet remained humble, never seeking recognition for himself, but always willing to share his wisdom and his craft with others.