In a heartbreaking loss for the world of music, Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla player hailed as one of the greatest musicians globally, has died at the age of 73.

The Indian classical music icon succumbed to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a severe lung condition, at a hospital in San Francisco, according to a statement released by his family.

Hussain's illustrious career earned him four Grammy Awards and India’s prestigious Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honor.

His achievements are a testament to his passion and dedication, as he didn’t just perform but transformed the tabla into a celebrated solo instrument, often stealing the spotlight in performances where the tabla was previously relegated to an accompaniment role.

Tributes from across the globe have begun to flood in since the announcement of his passing.

Renowned sitar and tabla player Nayan Ghosh expressed his devastation, recounting a friendship that stretched over 60 years.

He described Hussain as a pioneer and an icon who placed Indian music firmly on the world stage, inspiring countless artists and transcending musical genres.

Famed English guitarist John McLaughlin referred to him as "the King," encapsulating the magic of rhythm that Hussain created through his music.

Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej went so far as to call him “one of the greatest musicians and personalities India has ever produced.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Hussain as a "true genius" who revolutionized Indian classical music, while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi lamented the loss, declaring it a significant blow for the music community.

The US embassy in India also recognized him as a "true maestro" whose legacy will continue.

Born in Mumbai in 1951, Hussain was immersed in music from an early age, training under his father, Ustad Allarakha Khan, a distinguished tabla player.

By age seven, Hussain was performing on stage alongside his father, absorbed in a lifelong journey of musical exploration.

His talent was remarkably evident; as a teenager, he began collaborating with the legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar, leading to a whirlwind career where he performed over 150 concerts a year internationally by the time he turned 19.

His collaborative spirit extended beyond traditional Indian music.

Hussain contributed to film soundtracks and worked with some of the biggest names in Western music, including George Harrison of The Beatles, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and Van Morrison.

His 1992 album, "Planet Drum," released with drummer Mickey Hart, won the first Grammy for "Best World Music Album," further solidifying his global prominence.

Throughout his career, Hussain received a total of seven Grammy nominations, with four wins marking his musical excellence.

In 2016, he expressed humility regarding his fame, attributing it to the universal appeal of music rather than his own prowess: "I am a worshipper of music, who presents it in front of people."

In the later stages of his life, Hussain became a highly sought-after collaborator for younger classical musicians and dancers.

Significantly contributing to the rise of new talent on the global stage.

Music writer Shailaja Khanna noted that under his influence, younger musicians began to draw substantial audiences, charging higher ticket prices for classical performances — a rare feat in the traditional music spectrum of India.

Reflecting on his unique journey, Hussain stated, "I am one of those musicians who came at the cusp of a great change in the music world," highlighting how he rode the wave of musical evolution while maintaining an intimate relationship with it.

Zakir Hussain leaves behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike, ensuring that his contributions to the tapestry of global music remain indelible.