When Late Ustad Zakir Hussain Beat Amitabh Bachchan to Become the Sexiest Man...

Anybody who has seen Ustad Zakir Hussain play the tabla knows the magic his fingers created. When Zakir’s fingers touched the tabla, they produced a sound that was nothing short of divine. His fast-moving fingers could rival Bruce Lee’s speed, mesmerising audiences worldwide.

As the family of Zakir Hussain confirmed the demise of this legendary artist and master in the music world, tributes have been pouring in. But did you know there was a time when Ustad Zakir Hussain outpaced Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan? Let’s uncover this fascinating story.

The Moment Zakir Hussain Surpassed Amitabh Bachchan

Zakir Hussain was a man of many honors and accolades. Throughout his illustrious career, he was recognised with prestigious awards like the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, four Grammy Awards, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and even the USA's National Heritage Fellowship. Additionally, he received the title of Officier in France's Order of Arts and Letters.

But in 1994, he earned a unique title that made headlines across India. Zakir Hussain was voted the “Sexiest Man” by women readers of the Indian magazine Gentleman, beating none other than Amitabh Bachchan, the reigning superstar of Bollywood.

The Tabla Maestro Turned Household Name

The Tabla maestro became a household name, not just through his extraordinary tabla skills but also through his popular appearances, like in the Taj Tea commercial. His collaborations with iconic musicians and dancers are cherished by millions.

Zakir Hussain’s jugalbandis with legends such as Birju Maharaj, Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia, Rahul Sharma, and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan are timeless masterpieces. These performances continue to garner thousands of views on YouTube, celebrating his unmatched legacy in the music world.

Zakir Hussain’s Passing Leaves the World in Mourning

The world lost Ustad Zakir to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a rare lung disease. He took his last breath at a hospital in San Francisco, USA. Initial reports of him being alive were later clarified by his family on Monday, confirming his demise at the age of 73.

As the world bids farewell to the legendary tabla maestro, we celebrate a life that impacted millions. Zakir Hussain’s soulful music, often said to carry the essence of divinity, will continue to resonate and inspire generations to come.