Legendary percussionist Zakir Hussain’s mastery of the tabla has brought Indian classical music global recognition, showcasing its rhythms through groundbreaking collaborations and performances. Economist Shruti Rajagopalan reflects on the captivating aura of his live shows, where his genius, charisma, and spiritual connection create an experience that deeply resonates with every audience.

It is hard to explain the aura of Zakir to someone who has not sat in the audience and felt it. You can try to break it down—rationalists will call it genius, the sort of brilliance that defies analysis. Others might invoke his charisma, his ability to connect with any audience, that mischief dancing in his eyes. The spiritually inclined go a step further, claiming his rhythms channel something divine, as though the tabla becomes a vessel for forces we cannot name. I have heard Zakir live at least 25-30 times—concerts scattered across cities, years, moods—and I can tell you it is all of the above. Still, I will try to describe these moments as best as I can articulate, where Zakir speaks to every audience member in their language.

Zakir Hussain passed away on December 15, 2024, in San Francisco due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

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