Legacy of a Tabla Maestro
The world-renowned tabla player Zakir Hussain may be gone, but the rhythm and melody of his tabla continue to resonate in the hearts of people worldwide. Zakir’s journey with the tabla began at a tender age of three, and after years of dedication and hard work, he became a master of the instrument.
A Father’s Guidance
Zakir’s father, Ustad Allah Rakha Qureshi, played a pivotal role in shaping his son’s musical career. A great tabla player himself, Ustad Allah Rakha Qureshi instilled in Zakir the skills and passion required to excel in the art of tabla playing. The chemistry between the father-son duo was undeniable, and their partnership resulted in the creation of mesmerizing tabla beats.
A Legacy Spanning Five Decades
Ustad Allah Rakha Qureshi’s mastery over rhythm and melody enthralled tabla enthusiasts globally for nearly five decades. He elevated tabla playing to a rare level of artistic expression, paving the way for his son Zakir to follow in his footsteps. Zakir’s hard work and dedication earned him recognition as a talented artist in his own right.
Heart-to-Heart Conversations through Tabla
The father-son duo would often practice tabla on the terrace of their Bombay apartment, creating magical sounds that sparkled with rhythm. As they played, they would communicate through eye signals, understanding each other’s heart and hitting the tabla in perfect harmony.
A Stellar Career
Zakir Hussain’s first public performance was at the age of 11 in America. He went on to launch his debut album ‘Living in the Material World’ in 1973. His talent and dedication earned him an invitation from former US President Barack Obama to participate in the All-Star Global Concert at the White House.
(Input: Indrajit Badhwar/Raghu Rai)