Nita Ambani Honors Zakir Hussain's Legacy on 75th Birthday

Reliance Foundation founder felicitates renowned artists Hariharan, Kavita Krishnamurti, Suresh Wadkar, and others

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Reliance Foundation founder-chairperson Nita Ambani marked the 75th birth anniversary of legendary tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain by honoring acclaimed artists who have played a significant role in transforming the maestro's legacy. Ambani felicitated Hariharan, Kavita Krishnamurti, Suresh Wadkar, Sivamani, and Taufiq Qureshi, recognizing their dedication to the craft of music and their deep creative bond with Zakir Hussain.

Why it matters

Zakir Hussain was a renowned tabla player who blended traditions with global influences to create masterpieces that transcended language and culture. Honoring his legacy and the artists who carried on his work helps preserve and celebrate his immense contributions to Indian music.

The details

The event was organized by Reliance Foundation and featured a celebration of Zakir Hussain's life and work, with renowned theatre director Feroz Abbas Khan adding to the spirit of the evening. Hussain passed away in 2024 due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a rare lung disease.

  • Zakir Hussain's 75th birth anniversary was on March 9, 2026.
  • Hussain passed away on December 15, 2024.

The players

Nita Ambani

Founder-chairperson of Reliance Foundation, who organized the event honoring Zakir Hussain's legacy.

Zakir Hussain

Legendary tabla virtuoso and son of the renowned tabla player Alla Rakha, who passed away in 2024 due to a rare lung disease.

Hariharan

Acclaimed artist who was felicitated by Nita Ambani for his contributions to Zakir Hussain's legacy.

Kavita Krishnamurti

Renowned artist who was felicitated by Nita Ambani for her dedication to the craft of music and her connection to Zakir Hussain's work.

Suresh Wadkar

Celebrated artist who was honored by Nita Ambani for his role in preserving and promoting Zakir Hussain's musical legacy.

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The takeaway

Nita Ambani's event honoring Zakir Hussain's 75th birthday highlights the enduring impact of the legendary tabla virtuoso and the artists who have carried on his musical legacy, preserving an important part of India's cultural heritage.