A heartfelt and moving prayer meet was held at the Shanmukhananda Auditorium in Mumbai, organized by the family of the revered tabla maestro Ustad Allah Rakha Sahab, including Ustad Fazal Qureshi and Ustad Taufiq Qureshi, to honor the life and enduring legacy of the legendary Padma Vibhushan Ustad Zakir Hussain. The event, attended by a gathering of musicians, family, friends, and admirers, served as a tribute to the maestro whose music transcended boundaries and touched hearts worldwide.
The evening began with a soulful Taal Pranam by Ustad Fazal Qureshi, Sabir Khan and his students, setting a reflective and reverential tone for the gathering. This was followed by a stirring rendition of a Kabir Bhajan by the talented Devaki Pandit. The evening's anchor, Yogesh Samsi, gracefully introduced each speaker, their words imbued with admiration and deep respect for the departed legend.
N Rajam shared a heartfelt speech, eloquently highlighting Ustad Zakir Hussain's pioneering contributions to Indian classical music and his ability to bridge the gap between traditional sounds and global influences. Suresh Talwalkar fondly recalled personal anecdotes, celebrating the warmth, generosity, and artistic genius of Ustad Zakir Hussain. Renowned jazz musician Louis Banks spoke about the maestro’s groundbreaking fusion of Indian classical rhythms with jazz, creating a unique sound that captivated audiences globally. Poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar eloquently praised Ustad Zakir Hussain's ability to transcend cultural barriers, noting that his music had a universal appeal that resonated with millions.
Dr. V Rangraj, Vice President of Shanmukhananda Auditorium, also paid tribute, reflecting on Ustad Zakir Hussain’s monumental influence on the world of music.
The evening culminated with a poignant video tribute by Kunal Kapoor, which captured the essence of Ustad Zakir Hussain’s illustrious career, his infectious love for music, and his deep and lasting impact on generations of musicians. The audience was left in a reflective silence, a shared moment of reverence and gratitude for the extraordinary life of a true maestro.
The prayer meet concluded with a solemn moment of silence, allowing all present to reflect on Ustad Zakir Hussain’s remarkable legacy and the indelible mark he left on the world of music.
In a touching tribute, Ustad Taufiq Qureshi, the brother of the late maestro, said, “Ustad Zakir Hussain will be remembered as one of the most influential and transformative forces in the world of global music. I have had the privilege of witnessing him in many roles—brother, father, friend, guru, mentor, inspiration, motivator, colleague, and even as a divine presence. His legacy will continue to inspire countless musicians and listeners, resonating across all forms of music.”
Ustad Fazal Qureshi, in his poignant speech, said, “Zakir Bhai's untimely passing has reminded us of life's unpredictability, leaving us in grief and struggling to come to terms with this immense loss. His influence transcended boundaries, inspiring not only percussionists but also instrumentalists worldwide. Zakir Bhai was a master who seamlessly wove through diverse musical styles—keeping classical music pure, embodying jazz with authenticity, and adapting to various genres with unmatched ease. His personality, music, and global impact touched countless lives, even those who never met him. As we gather to honour his memory, let us pray for his eternal peace and a place of highest grace in God's kingdom.”
"There was no gap between his thought and creativity. What he felt, simultaneously reflected in his creation" said an emotional Javed Akhtar.
Shri Ashish Shelar minister of information technology and ministry of Culture said I first met Ustad Zakir Hussain with my friend Late Kiran Joglekar. Meeting Zakir bhai has made my life complete. At that time when I net him, I was a corporator. She I touched his feet, he got up and touched my feet. To see God in a mortal, was so humbling, something I have never experience. I have met him multiple times, but his humility always motivated me and I have experienced the magic of his magical fingers.
The event was a fitting and emotional tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain, a man whose artistry, warmth, and dedication have left an everlasting legacy, one that will continue to inspire musicians and music lovers across the world.(PR)
