Zakir Hussain:

Not only . . . one of the world’s foremost Indian percussionists, but also as one of the architects of modern world music.

—NPR

The preeminent classical tabla virtuoso of our time, Zakir Hussain is an international phenomenon and one of the world’s most esteemed and influential musicians. He was the foremost disciple of his father, the legendary Ustad Alla Rakha, and has performed with countless musicians across multiple genres, including John McLaughlin and the Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart. In 2024, Hussain won three Grammys—one apiece for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, Best Global Music Album, and Best Global Music Performance.

Rahul Sharma, a longtime collaborator of Hussain’s, is the son of legendary Indian musician and composer Shivkumar Sharma, who taught Rahul the 100-string san?ur. He has released more than 60 recordings and is a highly sought-after performer for concerts, studio work, and Bollywood films.