Tribute to Zakir Hussain

Zakir Hussain, legendary innovator of Indian music, gained worldwide fame with his dizzying percussion. He collaborated with major stars from classical music, jazz and pop, such as George Harrison and Earth, Wind & Fire. Up to his passing in late 2024, he performed regularly with violinist Kala Ramnath and with Jayanti Kumaresh, who plays the vina (Indian lute). These musicians now pay tribute to Zakir Hussain together with Hussain’s brother, the equally virtuosic Fazal Qureshi. 

Violinist Kala Ramnath has composed for the Kronos Quartet and shared the stage with classical violinist Hilary Hahn. She bridges the gaps between diverse musical worlds, much like Zakir Hussain did. Kumaresh is regarded a torchbearer for the vina, India’s national instrument. In a career spanning more than 35 years, she has become one of India’s most legendary vina masters.