Pandit Ronu Majumdar mourns the loss of Tabla Maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, calls him ‘Brightest Star’ of music

Pandit Ronu Majumdar, one of India’s most renowned flute players, expressed profound sorrow and heartfelt admiration for the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, who passed away in San Francisco on Monday. In an interaction with ETimes, Majumdar stated that the news of Hussain’s demise had left the music world in a state of shock. He was quoted as saying that it was an unfortunate and heartbreaking moment, adding that he found it difficult to process the loss. Majumdar described Hussain as the brightest star in the music world, whose light had now faded.

He mentioned that he had maintained cordial relations with Zakir Hussain and his family, noting that Hussain’s youngest brother, Taufiq, had been his childhood friend. Recalling his professional relationship with Hussain, Majumdar shared that they had collaborated on two highly successful albums and several movies. Majumdar also reflected on Hussain’s humanity and kindness, stating that these qualities would always remain with him. He recalled how Hussain treated him as an equal, as though they had been playing together for years. Referring to Hussain as his musical alter-ego, Majumdar mentioned their collaboration on popular albums like 'Ethereal Rhythms' and 'Heart to Heart'.
He recounted his first experience working with Hussain in 1996, describing how Hussain’s exceptional playing had made it seem like they had an enduring musical connection. Majumdar added that Hussain had been a larger-than-life personality, far beyond anyone’s comprehension. Hussain’s family confirmed his demise early Monday morning, clarifying earlier conflicting reports about his health. He was 73 and had succumbed to complications arising from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Born in 1951, Hussain was celebrated as one of the world’s most accomplished musicians. He had been hospitalized for two weeks and later admitted to the ICU as his condition worsened. Hussain’s illustrious career earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. He also won four Grammy Awards, three of which he received earlier this year at the 66th Grammy Awards.