Taj Mahal Tea has paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, who passed away on 15 December 2024, leaving an indelible mark on Indian culture and the brand’s history. The full-page advertisement is not merely a condolence message but a celebration of an extraordinary life that deeply intertwined with Taj Mahal Tea’s legacy.

An Iconic Legacy
The headline, “Ask a billion Indians what comes to mind when they hear ‘Taj Mahal Tea.’ It’s not the Taj Mahal, it’s you, Ustad,” poignantly captures Hussain’s unparalleled contribution to the brand. His iconic role in the unforgettable “Wah Taj!” campaign from the late 1980s etched him in the collective memory of India. Set against the backdrop of the Taj Mahal, the advertisement featured Hussain performing tabla riyaz, responding to admiration with the now-legendary line, “Arre huzoor, Wah Taj boliye!”

A Maestro Beyond Compare
Born to the illustrious tabla virtuoso Ustad Alla Rakha, Hussain carried forward his father’s legacy, enriching Indian classical music while bridging cultures globally. Over his illustrious career, he received India’s highest civilian honors—Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), and Padma Vibhushan (2023)—a testament to his immense contributions to music and culture.

A four-time Grammy winner, Ustad Zakir Hussain’s collaborations with global music legends such as Yo-Yo Ma, Charles Lloyd, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mickey Hart, and George Harrison introduced Indian classical music to audiences worldwide, fostering a deep appreciation for its intricacies and beauty.

A Timeless Partnership
For Taj Mahal Tea, Hussain wasn’t just a brand ambassador; he was the soul of their narrative—a symbol of excellence, grace, and timelessness. The advertisement concludes with a moving message:
“Thank you for all the years of a beautiful partnership.”
It’s a fitting tribute to a partnership that transcended advertising, becoming a cultural phenomenon cherished by generations.

Author: Sania Khan