Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain: From Charging Rs 5 For His Debut Concert to Padma Shri Awardee And Grammy Winner; His Net Worth Will Surprise You!

Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla player and multiple Grammy award winner, is in critical condition at a hospital in the US due to severe heart-related issues, his family announced on Sunday. 

Zakir Hussain was born on March 9, 1951, in Maharashtra. He was the son of Ustad Alla Rakha Khan and carried forward his father’s legacy, becoming a global ambassador for Indian classical music. 

Zakir Hussain began learning tabla at seven and performed across India by 12. He completed his schooling at St. Michael’s High School, Mahim, and graduated from St. Xavier’s College, blending academics and art seamlessly. 

He married to Kathak dancer Antonia Minnecola, Zakir Hussain was a family man and a father to two daughters, Anisa and Isabella. He also explored acting, starring in films like Saaz and Monkey Man.

Zakir Hussain’s illustrious career included earning five Grammy Awards and composing for 12 films. His ability to connect Indian classical music with global sounds remains unmatched.   

He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2002, and Padma Vibhushan in 2023. The Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1990 cemented his place as one of India's most celebrated musicians. 

With a net worth of USD 1 million (Around Rs 84,800,000), Zakir Hussain’s life was not only enriched by wealth but also by his contribution to Indian classical music. He charged Rs 5-10 lakh per concert, sharing his mastery with audiences worldwide. (Image Credit: @zakirhq9/Insta)