Tabla maker Haridas Vhatkar mourns the loss of Ustad Zakir Hussain
Tabla maker Haridas Vhatkar is mourning the death of Ustad Zakir Hussain, his most notable customer for over 20 years. Vhatkar crafted numerous tablas for Hussain, who was known for his specific requirements and attention to detail. Vhatkar began making tablas for Hussain's father in 1998 and maintained a close professional relationship with the tabla maestro. He described Hussain as a significant influence in his life, stating, "I made tablas for him and he made my life." Zakir Hussain passed away in a San Francisco hospital, leaving behind his wife and two daughters. Vhatkar, a third-generation tabla maker, continues the family tradition with his sons.