Zakir Hussain Passes Away At 73: Family Confirms Cause Of Death As Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

The world was met with sorrow on Monday as news broke of the passing of Zakir Hussain, a renowned tabla virtuoso. Reports indicate that the 73-year-old musician died in San Francisco. He had been hospitalised for two weeks and was moved to intensive care after his condition worsened.

Initially, there was confusion about Zakir Hussain's death. Some reports suggested heart complications were the cause, but these were refuted by his nephew, Ameer Aulia. Ameer tweeted, "I am Zakir Hussain nephew and he has not passed away. We ask for prayers for my Uncle's health. Can you please remove this misinformation. He is in a serious condition and we ask for all his fans around the world to pray for his health". However, later on Monday, the family confirmed his passing.

In a statement to India Today, Zakir Hussain's family clarified that he succumbed to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease. The statement read: "Zakir Hussain, one of the world's most transcendent musicians, passed away from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in San Francisco at the age of 73. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy cherished by countless music lovers around the globe, with an influence that will resonate for generations to come."

Zakir Hussain is survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola, who was a Kathak dancer, and their daughters Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.

Following the confirmation of Zakir Hussain's death, social media platforms have been flooded with tributes and condolences. Kamal Haasan expressed his sorrow on Twitter: "Zakir Bhai! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art. Goodbye and Thank you".