Ustad Zakir Hussain dies at 73 from complications of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro, died at 73 due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He was hospitalized for nearly two weeks in San Francisco as his lung condition worsened, leading to his death. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a serious lung disease that causes lung tissue to become scarred and stiff, making breathing difficult. It is a progressive and terminal illness with no cure, though treatments may help manage symptoms. Risk factors for developing pulmonary fibrosis include age, gender, smoking, and exposure to harmful substances. Symptoms can vary but often include breathlessness, dry cough, fatigue, and unintended weight loss.