Music is not restricted to a few: Ustad Zakir Hussain

Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain has said that the media can do a yeoman service to Indian art and culture if they highlight the bench strength of Indian music rather than concentrating on individuals.

"The tradition of our music is rich, and is not restricted to a few individuals. Our music is enjoying incredible popularity at present. But, this will go away if the next generation is not recognised," Zakir told PTI.

He felt it is upto the media not to get caught with what's written on the marquee, but also see what is behind it. "Then they will realise the bench strength of Indian music," he said adding, musicians should be helped to get visibility.

Zakir said among his contemporaries, there are about 10 to 12 tabla players, who were as good as him if not better. "Some of them are even better. But, I am in the public eye," he said.

Zakir said when Pt Ravi Shankar was younger and became popular, people did not realise that there are other sitarists too who are good.

Zakir said he played and practised for 25 years before being accepted as a top tabla player. "Classical music is not a one-hit wonder. You have to prove yourself for 15 to 20 years to emerge as a genius."

"The young generation of tabla players are good, and they have the makings, but it is too early to say whether they will evolve into the geniuses of yesteryears. They have to prove themselves over a period of time," he said.