Zakir Hussain’s Marriage to Antonia Minnecola: How Love Overcame Family Traditions

The legendary tabla maestro married Antonia without his mother’s approval; his father officiated the Muslim ceremony.

December 16, 2024: Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, who passed away on December 15, left behind a legacy of music and memories. Among his cherished life moments was his interfaith marriage to Antonia Minnecola, a love story that faced resistance but ultimately triumphed over traditions.

Also Read: Bollywood and Music Fraternity Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Zakir Hussain: “A Treasure Trove of Skill”

During an old interview on Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, Zakir Hussain revealed that he married Antonia without initially telling his mother. “In my family, this was the first mixed marriage. More than my father, my mother had a tough time accepting it. We didn’t tell her until I was already married,” Zakir shared candidly.

Also Read: Zakir Hussain: The Tabla Maestro Whose Rhythms Will Echo Eternally- A Brief Biography

Zakir’s father, understanding the bond between the two, played a significant role. He not only officiated their wedding through a Muslim ceremony but also handled the delicate task of explaining it to Zakir’s mother. Zakir recalled with humor, “My father simply said, ‘Well, it’s done. Just live with it.’”

Also Read: Zakir Hussain, Tabla Maestro and Global Music Icon, Dies at 73

Over time, his mother grew to love Antonia. Zakir explained, “She met her, understood her, and realized that the person was what mattered most, beyond traditions and religion. She loves Toni and thinks the world of her.”

Antonia Minnecola, who accompanied Zakir on the episode, shared their first meeting. “I was visiting Ali Akbar Khan sahab to study dance. That’s when I met Zakir. I thought he was very sweet and felt like I knew him instantly,” she said.

The couple shared decades of love and raised two daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi. Zakir’s ability to balance tradition, family, and love reflected not just in his music but also in his personal life.

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Tags: Zakir Hussain, Antonia Minnecola, Zakir Hussain marriage, Tabla maestro, Indian classical music, interfaith marriage, Zakir Hussain family, Simi Garewal interview, Anisa Qureshi, Isabella Qureshi,