Shankar Mahadevan and Salim-Sulaiman’s 'Shringaar' Celebrates Ustad Zakir Hussain

Music, renowned composer-producers Salim and Sulaiman Merchant, along with the versatile vocalist Shankar Mahadevan, have released a new song, 'Shringaar', as a homage to the late tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain. This heartfelt release is the second installment of the sixth season of Bhoomi, an annual musical project by the Merchant brothers that celebrates the rich heritage of Indian music.

'Shringaar' is a classical-pop fusion that beautifully expresses a lover’s sentiment that their beloved’s natural beauty needs no elaborate adornment. The lyrics, “Kaahe Kare Shringaar Sajaniya, Jag Tope Jaaye Vaar Sajaniya…” (Why do you adorn yourself, my love, the world is already smitten with you), set the tone for this poignant musical piece. The choice of Shankar Mahadevan was a natural one for Salim-Sulaiman, given his effortless command over classical music and his ability to infuse soul into every note.

The initial vision for the track was far more ambitious—a dream collaboration that would unite Mahadevan’s voice with the unparalleled artistry of Ustad Zakir Hussain. The idea was conceived in October 2024, and by November, Salim-Sulaiman had crafted the basic melody. However, as Salim Merchant recounts, fate intervened. Shankar Mahadevan, aware of Ustad Zakir Hussain’s failing health, advised against sending him the track. On December 15, 2024, the music fraternity lost a true icon.

For Salim Merchant, the loss was personal, describing Ustad Zakir Hussain as his "musical father." The project, originally a collaboration, had to be completed as a tribute. "Song left aside, it was a huge loss for me and the music fraternity. Since we had decided to do the track with him, it was only natural that we complete it as a tribute,” he shares.

Shankar Mahadevan echoes this sentiment, remembering Ustad Zakir Hussain not just as a musician but as a "walking encyclopedia." Their shared history of performing and touring together taught him more than just music; it instilled lessons of humility, camaraderie, and the power of spreading positivity through rhythm. Mahadevan sees 'Shringaar' as a collective homage from the entire musical community. “I am sure that when the song plays, he will be looking down on us from above… smiling, blessing us, and giving us all the good wishes he always did,” he says.

The creation of the song itself seemed to be blessed with its own magic. According to Salim, Mahadevan’s recording session was a testament to his genius. He performed the entire classical section of the song in a single, flawless take. "It was so mesmerising that it literally felt like Maa Saraswati had come and blessed us," Salim explains. This live, spontaneous recording, a rarity in modern music production, captures the raw emotion and respect poured into this tribute.

'Shringaar' is more than just a song; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of a maestro and a beautiful expression of love and loss. It serves as a reminder of the profound impact Ustad Zakir Hussain had on those around him and continues to inspire through his absence. The track stands as a timeless piece, a fusion of classical and contemporary sounds, united by a deep and abiding respect for a legend who will forever be missed.