50 Voices, One Rhythm: Music World Bows to Tabla Titan, Zakir Hussain on First Death Anniversary

Updated: December 14, 2025 12:17

Image Source: CNBC TV18

On December 14–15, 2025, over 50 artistes will gather at Mumbai’s NCPA for “Maestro Forever”, a two-day tribute marking Zakir Hussain’s first death anniversary. Featuring concerts, film screenings, and a photo exhibition, the event celebrates the tabla legend’s global legacy and enduring influence on classical and fusion music.

The world of music is set to gather in Mumbai for a heartfelt tribute to legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, marking his first death anniversary. Over 50 acclaimed artistes from India and abroad will come together at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) on December 14–15, 2025, for a two-day memorial titled “Maestro Forever.”

Grand Line-Up: The tribute will feature performances by stalwarts including Amjad Ali Khan with Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, Shankar Mahadevan, John McLaughlin, Louis Banks, Dave Holland, Rakesh Chaurasia, Ajoy Chakrabarty, Niladri Kumar, Selvaganesh, Vijay Ghate, Fazal Qureshi, and Taufiq Qureshi, among others.

Family & Collaborators: Hussain’s wife Antonia Minnecola, close collaborators, and members of the extended Shakti family will participate, reflecting his lifelong musical bonds.

Special Exhibitions: A photo exhibition by Dayanita Singh titled “Zakir Hussain: Learning to Learn, A Student’s Tribute” will be showcased, alongside film screenings by Sumantra Ghosal, chronicling Hussain’s journey.

Cultural Significance: The event will include morning Hindustani classical recitals and evening concerts, overlooking the Arabian Sea at NCPA, symbolizing Hussain’s global influence and deep roots in Indian classical music.

Emotional Resonance: Tabla exponent Aditya Kalyanpur, who first performed with Hussain at age eight, described the tribute as a way to honour the maestro’s enduring mentorship and inspiration.

Broader Context

Zakir Hussain, revered worldwide for his virtuosity and innovation, was more than a tabla player—he was a cultural ambassador of Indian classical music. His collaborations with jazz, fusion, and world music icons expanded the reach of Indian rhythms globally. The “Maestro Forever” tribute highlights not only his artistry but also the community of musicians he nurtured.

The gathering of 50 artistes is a testament to Hussain’s unifying power in music, bridging generations and genres. For fans and fellow musicians, the memorial is both a celebration of his genius and a reminder of the void his passing left in the world of rhythm.

The two-day tribute at NCPA promises to be a landmark event, blending performances, exhibitions, and memories to honour a maestro whose beats continue to resonate across the globe.

Sources: Indian Express, CNBC TV18, Daily Star

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