Musician Tarun Bhattacharya, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Ustad Zakir Hussain, offering a profound analysis of his unique contributions to the world of Indian percussion. Reflecting on the maestro’s unparalleled artistry, Bhattacharya emphasized how Ustad Zakir Hussain’s deft technique and innovative approach redefined the global perception of tabla playing.
“I have had the fortune of discussing, listening to, and understanding Zakir Bhai’s music over the past few decades,” Bhattacharya shared. He added, “Each occasion left me mesmerized by the intricacies of his rhythms and the depth of his artistry. His magnetic yet humble personality belied the immeasurable impact he had on the world of music.”
Highlighting the late maestro’s legacy, Bhattacharya noted how Ustad Zakir Hussain transformed the role of the tabla in classical music. “One of his greatest contributions was revolutionizing the style of accompaniment,” he explained. “After the instrumental alap and jod, Zakir Bhai would often begin with a simple theka to complement the mood of the raag. As the instrumentalist’s pace and emotion evolved, his tabla would seamlessly adapt, creating a synergy that was unparalleled.”
He further elaborated on Ustad Zakir Hussain’s versatility, pointing out how the maestro’s playing style varied uniquely with each artist and raag. “For instance, when accompanying my Guruji, Pandit Ravi Shankar, he played differently than he did with Ustad Vilayat Khan Sahib or Pandit Nikhil Banerjee, even when the instrument and raag were the same. His ability to adapt to the essence of the artist was extraordinary.”
Bhattacharya urged the music community to preserve and propagate Ustad Zakir Hussain’s legacy. “Now that we are transitioning into a world without the sound of his rhythms, it is our responsibility to discuss and share his contributions with future generations. His artistry made Indian percussion a global phenomenon, and this knowledge must be treasured and celebrated.”