Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro, passed away last night (15^th December) in San Francisco, leaving behind a legacy as a global cultural ambassador. Hussain was the eldest son of the legendary Tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha. He was 73.

Hussain died due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He had been hospitalized for the last two weeks and was later taken to the ICU after his condition deteriorated.

Born on 9^th March, 1951, in Mumbai, India, Zakir Hussain was the eldest son of the legendary Tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha.

Immersed in music from an early age, Hussain began performing across India by the age of 12, showcasing his prodigious talent and following in his father's illustrious footsteps.

Over a remarkable career spanning six decades, he became a prominent figure in Indian classical music and made a mark in the hallowed precincts of global musical theatre. He was known for his virtuosic skills and innovative contributions, which transcended traditional boundaries.

One of his most groundbreaking project was in 1973 with English guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionist TH 'Vikku' Vinayakram who together fused Indian classical music with jazz elements, creating a new genre that captivated audiences worldwide. The formation led to the band called Shakti.

Hussain, is regarded as the greatest tabla player of his generation, is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.