Aalekh Foundation & Humnavaz Foundation Presented Waah Ustad – A Musical Tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain

Aalekh Foundation, in association with the Humnavaz Foundation, proudly organized Waah Ustad, a grand musical tribute celebrating the genius and legacy of the legendary Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. The memorial concert took place at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, at 6:00 PM, brought together some of India’s finest classical musicians and performers for an evening of remembrance, rhythm, and reverence.

Guests including Former Secretary MEA Ambassador Amarendra Khatua, Kathak Dancer Shovana Narayan, Actress Sohaila Kapur, Artist Manoj Arora, Artist Divyaman Singh, Odissi Dancer Sharon Lowen, Artist Rachna Aggarwal, Kathak Dancer Shinjini Kulkarni, Pandit Ram Kumar Mishra, Rahul Kumar Mishra and many more graced the evening with their presence. 
 
Waah Ustad honours the unparalleled contribution of Ustad Zakir Hussain to Indian classical music, world percussion, and cross-cultural collaboration. The concert is envisioned as a heartfelt offering to the maestro’s artistry—one that has inspired generations of musicians and touched audiences across the globe.

The evening featured two curated programmes comprising eminent artists:
Programme 1
• Amaan Ali Bangash – Sarod
• Zuheb Ahmed Khan – Tabla
• Pt Fateh Singh Gangani – Pakhawaj

Programme 2
• Pt Rajendra Gangani – Kathak
• Pt Yogesh Samsi – Tabla

Compère: Sadhna Shrivastav

This collaboration between Aalekh Foundation and Humnavaz Foundation reflects a shared commitment to preserving India’s classical traditions while providing platforms that celebrate our cultural icons.

On the occasion Dr. Rennie Joyy, Founder of Aalekh Foundation said, “At Aalekh Foundation, our work has always centred on celebrating India’s cultural heritage and ensuring that our artistic traditions remain alive, respected, and relevant. Waah Ustad is not merely a concert—it is an emotion, a collective gesture of gratitude to Ustad Zakir Hussain, whose brilliance elevated the Tabla to global recognition.

It is a privilege for us to honour a legend whose music has been a source of inspiration and pride for our country. Through this tribute, we hope to bring together audiences, artists, and admirers in a space where memory and music meet. Aalekh Foundation is delighted to collaborate with Humnavaz Foundation for this special evening that salutes an extraordinary life in rhythm.”