Zakir Hussain, legendary tabla maestro, dies at 73 in San Francisco
Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro, has reportedly passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco on December 15, 2024. His death marks a significant loss for Indian classical music and global fusion. Hussain is remembered not only for his musical contributions but also for popularizing the iconic ad slogan “Wah Taj” in a famous tea commercial. The ad, featuring the Taj Mahal, became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s, connecting viewers through shared experiences. His performances in the commercials made him a household name in India, blending tradition with modernity. The phrase “Wah Taj!” continues to evoke nostalgia, symbolizing a golden era in advertising and Indian culture.