Zakir Hussain’s father, chose Tabla rhythms over Islamic prayers for his son

Zakir Hussain once shared a captivating story about his father, Ustad Alla Rakha, highlighting his unique approach to worshipping Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and music. This narrative, recounted by Zakir Hussain, provides insight into the cultural values and artistic devotion that influenced his life.

Zakir recalled how, as a newborn, he was cradled by his father, who adhered to the traditional custom of welcoming a baby with whispered prayers. However, instead of reciting conventional Islamic prayers, Alla Rakha chose to chant tabla rhythms.

This act showcased Alla Rakha's profound devotion to his art, viewing music as a form of worship. Zakir mentioned that his father, a devout Muslim, considered these rhythms as prayers, declaring, “I am a devotee of Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesh.”

Zakir shared that his mother initially reacted with fury to this unconventional ritual, expecting traditional prayers. Alla Rakha calmly explained that music was his form of prayer, a way to impart the blessings of his teachers and the art of rhythm to his son.

“This was a devout Muslim talking. He said this is the knowledge he got from his teachers and wanted to pass it on to his son," Zakir Hussain said about his father.

Zakir Hussain’s Grammy Awards

Born in Mumbai on March 9, 1951, Zakir Hussain began his musical journey as a child, performing his first concert at the age of seven. His dedication to the tabla took him worldwide, earning him accolades such as the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.

The late tabla maestro also made history as the first Indian to win three Grammy Awards in a single night. His comeback album for the world fusion band Shakti, "This Moment," won the 2024 Grammy for Best Global Music Album, solidifying his legacy in both Indian classical and global music.