Legendary Tabla Maestro Passes Away: A Great Loss to Indian Classical Music

 

Delhi: Indian classical music fraternity is in deep sorrow today as Ustad Naseem Ahmad Sahab, a renowned tabla maestro and ghazal accompanist, passed away at the age of 68 years. He breathed his last at 1:00 PM at Kailash Deepak Hospital, Delhi, after suffering a heart attack.

Belonging to a prestigious musical lineage, he was the great-grandson of the legendary Ustad Ahmed Jan Thirakwa of the famed Muradabad Gharana. Music was not just his profession, but his legacy, devotion, and identity.

He was also the elder brother of Naeem Ali, and among music lovers, he was lovingly known as the “Indian Ghulam Ali” due to his soulful understanding of ghazals and exceptional accompaniment skills.

Ustad Sahab served Indian music for decades through his association with Akashwani Delhi, where he worked as a First Grade Tabla Vadak. After years of dedicated service, he retired with immense respect and admiration. Throughout his illustrious career, he was honoured with multiple awards for his outstanding contribution to Indian classical and light music.

His demise is an irreparable loss to the world of tabla, ghazal, and Indian classical music. Artists, students, and admirers across the country are expressing grief and paying heartfelt tributes.

May Allah grant him Jannat-ul-Firdous and give sabr to his family and loved ones.

A maestro may leave this world, but his taal and legacy will live forever.