Zakir Hussain's tabla maker reflects on their bond and the legend's legacy
Zakir Hussain, a renowned tabla player, has passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco. His tabla maker, Haridas Vhatkar, expressed deep sorrow, recalling their long relationship since 1998 and Hussain's specific preferences for his instruments. Vhatkar, a third-generation tabla maker, shared memories of their last meeting in August during Guru Poornima. He noted Hussain's attention to detail in tuning and the numerous tablas he crafted for him over the years. Hussain's death marks a significant loss for the tabla-making community. Vhatkar, who learned the craft from his family, continues to honor Hussain's legacy through his work.