Zakir Hussain’s tabla on display at Bengaluru’s Indian Music Experience Museum

Zakir Hussain’s tabla on display at Bengaluru’s Indian Music Experience Museum

 Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain has left behind such a huge legacy with his “eternally dancing fingers” that his music is permanently housed in every music lover’s sensibilities. There is something even more special that the Indian Music Experience (IME) museum at JP Nagar in Bengaluru houses.

In 2019 when the IME was inaugurated by Ustad, he generously parted with one of his tabla sets that he felt “has come to the right place” It was a set that was part of his umpteen international platforms brushing cadences alongside global beats from star musicians.

“Zakir was a titan in the world of music and his passing leaves a void that will be felt across generations,” says Preema John. Museum Director, IME. “The tabla has been central to numerous genres, from classical and folk to fusion and world music. Zakir has been at the forefront of many of these musical conversations.”

Connection between generations

Preema says that having the set as part of the IME collection feels like a connection between generations of music lovers. “We are honoured to share this invaluable piece of history with our visitors. To be entrusted with such a precious gift from Zakir Sahab himself is truly an honour. He played these tablas on the opening night of our museum.”

The fact that Zakir redefined the boundaries of rhythm, blending tradition with innovation in ways few have done is a testimony to his versatility, Preema says. “Having his tabla in our collection embodies the essence of what we strive to achieve at IME — preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Indian music while showcasing its ongoing evolution.”

Musical mastery