Zakir Hussain, tabla maestro and 'Wah Taj' ad star, dies at 73
Ustad Zakir Hussain, a renowned tabla player, passed away in San Francisco at age 73 due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He was celebrated for his contributions to Indian classical music and his role in the famous 'Wah Taj' advertisement. The 'Wah Taj' ad, filmed in the 1980s, featured Zakir playing tabla against the Taj Mahal. It became a significant part of Indian advertising history, introducing him to a wider audience at a time when television was still emerging in India. Despite challenges in communication and travel, Zakir eagerly participated in the ad, showcasing his talent and humility. His performance and the ad's memorable exchange left a lasting impact, making him a beloved figure in Indian culture.