It is his pleasant expression that grabs the attention and once you settle down, his musical play keeps you fascinated. One of the proud faces of India, Ustad Zakir Hussain will celebrate his birthday on Friday as he turns 67. Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, to the legendary tabla player Alla Rakha Qureshi in the city of Mumbai. He was a child prodigy and was born to rule the hearts through his incredible art. In addition to being an outstanding musician, Zakir redefined the profile of tabla players in India through his solo performances. His on-stage presentation did not only charm the Indian audiences but overseas as well. As the Tabla Maestro celebrates his birthday, we have few of his beautiful acts that has clearly mesmerized the spectators and is still on the top search results.
It will not be wrong to say that, with the arrival of Zakir Hussain we finally have an audience that not just participate to listen to the vocalists but enjoy the beats played by the tabla artists. Zakir’s fame spread internationally following many successful tour performances mainly in the United States and Europe. He has also collaborated with many extraordinary musicians from all over India and the world. He has combined with jazz musicians, drummers of diverse backgrounds, folk musicians, Carnatic classical musicians and many others.
Zakir continues to introduce newer elements to his music, experimenting with fresh styles and ideas to enrich the art that is in him. His unique style has awarded him with Padma Shri in 1988 and Padma Bhushan in 2002 by the Government of India. To celebrate his birthday, let us have a look to some of his mind-blowing on-stage performances that gives goosebumps to all music lovers out there.
Ustad Zakir Hussain at a live concert with playback singer Hariharan
Ustad Zakir Hussain at the Peshkar Concerto for tabla and orchestra created by the Symphony Orchestra of India
Ustad Zakir Hussain, and renowned flautist player Rakesh Chaurasia team up for one memorable night
Ustad Zakir Hussain's teental solo performance
In a light shaded kurta pyjama, as Ustad Zakir Hussain begins his performance on stage, listeners cannot stop themselves but close their eyes and enjoy the rhythm of his tune. It is an unforgettable aural and visual experience to the individuals who attend his live concerts. We hope that the musical genius continues to surprise and entertain us with his soulful music. We wish the expert a very Happy Birthday!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 09, 2018 06:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).