New York, NY– In a heartfelt tribute to one of the world’s most revered musicians, the Asia Society and Sneh Arts, in collaboration with Sound Traditions, hosted a powerful memorial celebration on February 1st in honor of the legendary Ustad Zakir Hussain. The evening, filled with music, reflection, and community connection, brought together cultural leaders, admirers, and local musicians to celebrate the profound impact of Zakir Hussain on the world of music.
The program opened with remarks from key figures, each setting the tone for a night of reverence and gratitude. Rachel Cooper from the Asia Society, Sunny Thakkar of Sneh Arts & Sneh Arts Foundation, and Shruti Rawoot of Sound Traditions shared moving reflections that highlighted the global importance of Ustad Zakir Hussain’s contributions to the world of classical music, especially Indian percussion.
Their words set the stage for a deeply spiritual musical experience that followed, beginning with a trio of performances that captured the essence of Zakir ji’s profound connection to his art:
- Shruti Rawoot graced the audience with a serene rendition of a Dhrupad Bandish, transporting listeners to a sacred realm of sound.
- Amira Dvorah offered Islamic prayers, her moving delivery evoking deep reverence and peace.
- Deepak Kumar performed a soul-stirring Sanskrit peace prayer, accompanied by the ethereal resonance of the tanpura, providing a meditative atmosphere that set the tone for the rest of the evening.
As the evening unfolded, a curated video tribute captured highlights from Zakir Hussain’s extraordinary career, offering a glimpse into the man behind the music. His journey through sound, discipline, and artistry was beautifully documented, evoking deep emotions among those in attendance.
A Community of Reflection
The memorial became a space for personal stories and shared memories, as community members took the stage to reflect on their experiences with Zakir ji. These tributes, both personal and professional, underscored the profound influence he had on musicians, students, and fans alike, highlighting his generosity of spirit and unwavering commitment to the art form.
Musical Tributes to a Maestro
The memorial continued with mesmerizing musical performances that honored Zakir Hussain’s influence. Avirodh Sharma, a gifted tabla player, and Rohan Misra, a virtuoso on the sarangi, delivered a heartfelt performance that served as a dedication to Zakir ji’s unparalleled artistry. Their collaboration, infused with deep respect for their mentor, was a testament to the enduring legacy of Ustad Zakir Hussain.
The evening also featured Amira Dvorah, who not only shared personal anecdotes about Zakir ji—some lighthearted, others poignant—but also performed a moving flute solo. Her music, intertwined with memories of Zakir Hussain’s life, filled the room with warmth and gratitude.
The evening’s program came to a close with a powerful video of Zakir Hussain himself, speaking about his spiritual bond with his instrument. His words, captured in a rare moment of candid reflection, provided a beautiful and fitting conclusion to the memorial. “When the instrument and I become one,” he said, “the magic happens.” It was a moment that resonated deeply with all in attendance, echoing the sentiments of the evening: the transcendent connection between artist, music, and soul.
Acknowledgments
This memorable tribute would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the Asia Society, Sneh Arts, and Sound Traditions, whose collaboration made the event a resounding success. The heartfelt participation of the community, from musicians to attendees, helped to make this a truly special evening in honor of a man whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
About the Hosts
- Sneh Arts (@snehartsny): Founded by Sunny Thakkar, Sneh Arts is a New York-based organization committed to preserving and promoting Indian music, dance, and culture.
- Sound Traditions: Co-founded by Shruti Rawoot, Sound Traditions is a cultural initiative that brings together musicians and audiences through Baithak Style concerts, fostering innovation and promoting Indian classical music.
- Asia Society Museum: A global institution, the Asia Society Museum is dedicated to fostering mutual understanding through the arts and education.
This tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain was not just an event—it was a celebration of the life, art, and spirit of one of the greatest musical geniuses of our time. The evening’s performances, reflections, and music were a testament to a legacy that continues to inspire and unite people around the world.
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