Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain and his wife, Antonio Minnecola, shared a remarkable journey together for over four decades, generating significant interest in their relationship. The legendary Tabla player recently passed away at the age of 73 after complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. While his extraordinary musical legacy will be celebrated by fans, many are also intrigued by his personal life.
Curious about Zakir Hussain’s wife and their family? Here’s what you need to know.
Who was Zakir Hussain married to?
Zakir Hussain was married to Antonia Minnecola.
The couple first met more than 40 years ago, tying the knot in a private ceremony in 1978. While Hussain’s father supported their union, there were challenges with his mother’s acceptance.
In a candid conversation, Hussain shared that their marriage was kept secret from his mother initially. “We didn’t tell her about our marriage until I was already married,” he explained, indicating that the commitment was made in his father’s presence during a Muslim ceremony.
What is Antonia Minnecola’s profession?
Antonia Minnecola is a prominent Kathak dancer and educator.
She began her illustrious career by receiving a fellowship from the American Institute of Indian Studies, allowing her to train under the legendary Sitara Devi, an iconic figure in the realm of classical Kathak.
With nearly three decades of experience under her belt, Minnecola has dazzled audiences worldwide at various prestigious events, including the Asian Pacific Performing Arts Festival and the San Francisco Jazz Festival. Over the years, she has been recognized with numerous awards for her contributions to dance.
Zakir Hussain and Antonia Minnecola’s relationship journey
Their love story began in the 1970s in the US, where both were dedicated to their artistic pursuits. Though Minnecola was initially uncertain about the relationship, their bond deepened over time. Following their marriage, the couple welcomed two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
