What caused tabla maestro Zakir Hussain’s death

Legendary table virtuoso Zakir Hussain breathes his last on Monday. Hussain, who is regarded as the greatest tabla player of his generation, is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Born on March 9, 1951, he is the son of legendary tabla master

Ustad Alla Rakha

. He was 73.
He had been hospitalized for the last two weeks and was later taken to the ICU after his condition deteriorated. As per statement released by his family, Husain died due to complications arising out of

idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

.

What is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis?

“Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lung condition of unknown origin in which the air sacs of the lungs become scarred and fibrous, leading to their destruction. This results in symptoms such as increasing breathlessness, persistent cough, weight loss, and other associated issues. IPF is more common in males and in current or former smokers. It is a very serious condition, with many patients not surviving more than 3 to 5 years after diagnosis. The course of the disease is unpredictable, as some patients decline very slowly, while others deteriorate rapidly. With today’s knowledge and tools, we cannot predict which patients will progress at the time of diagnosis. Treatment options include medications known as antifibrotics, which can slow and stabilize the disease but cannot cure it. Other treatments may include supplemental oxygen if needed, pulmonary rehabilitation, and, in certain cases, lung transplantation,” said Dr Vivek Anand Padegal, Director – Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) most commonly affects adults over the age of 50 and presents with a range of symptoms that worsen over time. A persistent, dry cough is often one of the earliest signs, frequently accompanied by progressive shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, as the lungs become less efficient at oxygen exchange. Fatigue is a common complaint, likely due to reduced oxygen levels and the body’s increased effort to breathe. In some cases, patients develop clubbing of the fingers, where the fingertips appear enlarged and rounded. These symptoms collectively impact daily activities and significantly diminish quality of life.
See more: Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passes away at 73: All you need to know about his life, family, career and legacy
The exact cause is unknown, but genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and aging are potential risk factors.

The disease course is variable, but the prognosis is often poor, with a median survival of 3–5 years after diagnosis. Early recognition and a multidisciplinary approach to care are essential for optimizing outcomes and providing supportive care to improve the patient’s quality of life.

Messages of condolence have started pouring in on social media

The percussionist, one of India’s most celebrated classical musicians, received the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. His groundbreaking work with Western musicians such as Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison brought

Indian classical music

to an international audience, cementing his status as a global cultural ambassador.
Messages of condolence poured in on social media as the news of Hussain’s demise spread.
Expressing his grief, PM Modi posted on X: Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary

tabla maestro

, Ustad Zakir Hussain Ji. He will be remembered as a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music. He also brought the tabla to the global stage, captivating millions with his unparalleled rhythm. Through this, he seamlessly blended Indian classical traditions with global music, thus becoming an icon of cultural unity.
His iconic performances and soulful compositions will contribute to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the global music community.

“The hands that brought the tabla to life have fallen silent, but Ustad Zakir Hussain’s music will live on in eternity. A true genius, a global icon, and one eternally blessed by Ma Saraswati. Om Shanti. #ZakirHussain,” author Ashwin Sanghi has posted on X.
See more: Zakir Hussain Passes Away LIVE Updates

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has expressed grief on the death of the legend: We are deeply saddened to know about the passing away of the legendary Tabla maestro and Padma Vibhushan awardee Ustad Zakir Hussain from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in San Francisco at the age of 73 today. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his wife Antonia Minnecola; and his daughters, Anisa Qureshi (her husband, Taylor Phillips, and their daughter, Zara) and Isabella Qureshi; his brothers, Taufiq Qureshi and Fazal Qureshi; and his sister, Khurshid Aulia. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
See more: Zakir Hussain Death News: Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain passes away at 73 in the US
The son of legendary tabla master Ustad Allarakha, Ustad Zakir Hussain is known for his unparalleled mastery of the tabla and his innovative contributions to music have touched the hearts of countless individuals around the world. His legacy will live on through his music and the lives he influenced. May his soul rest in peace.