Which award was Ustad Zakir Hussain awarded in 2023?

The correct answer is Padma Vibhushan.

Key Points

• Ustad Zakir Hussain, the renowned tabla maestro, was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.
• The Padma Vibhushan is India's second-highest civilian award, recognizing exceptional and distinguished service.
• Ustad Zakir Hussain has previously been awarded the Padma Shri in 1988 and the Padma Bhushan in 2002.
• He is celebrated globally for his contribution to Indian classical music and his collaborations with international artists.

Additional Information

• Padma Awards
  • The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honors in India, instituted in 1954.
  • They are awarded in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
  • The awards recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service is involved.
  • The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for "exceptional and distinguished service."
  • The Padma Bhushan is awarded for "distinguished service of a high order" and the Padma Shri for "distinguished service in any field."
• Ustad Zakir Hussain's Contributions
  • He is a virtuoso tabla player, composer, percussionist, music producer, film actor, and eldest son of legendary tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha.
  • He has been instrumental in bringing the tabla to the forefront of international music.
  • His collaborations include work with artists such as George Harrison, Yo-Yo Ma, and John McLaughlin.
  • He has also composed music for several films and dance productions.
• International Recognition
  • Ustad Zakir Hussain has been awarded numerous international awards including the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album in 2009 for "Global Drum Project."
  • He has been conferred honorary doctorates from several universities worldwide.
  • He regularly performs at prestigious festivals and venues across the globe.
• Role in Education
  • He is involved in various educational initiatives to promote Indian classical music.
  • He has established the Ustad Alla Rakha Institute of Music in Mumbai.
  • He conducts workshops and masterclasses around the world to educate and inspire the next generation of musicians.