Indian Idol 3 winner Prashant Tamang dies at 42, leaving Darjeeling and Nepali music world in mourning
Prashant Tamang, the popular singer and actor who rose to national fame after winning Indian Idol Season 3, passed away in New Delhi on Sunday following a sudden cardiac arrest. He was 42 years old. Tamang was taken to a hospital in the Dwarka area of the capital after suffering a heart attack, where doctors declared him dead.
The news of his untimely death has sent shockwaves through the Darjeeling hills, the Nepali-speaking world, and the Indian entertainment industry, where Tamang was widely admired for his inspiring life story and multi-talented career.
Filmmaker Rajesh Ghatani, who worked closely with him, confirmed the news after being informed by Tamang’s family. Fellow musicians and friends, including singers Pramod Kharel and Mahesh Sewa, also shared messages of grief, describing him as a rare voice who united Nepali speakers across borders.
A journey from police constable to national stardom
Born on January 4, 1983, in Darjeeling, West Bengal, Prashant Tamang came from a modest background. After losing his father at a young age, he had to take responsibility for his family and joined the Kolkata Police as a constable. While serving in the police force, he also sang with the police band, where his talent began to attract attention.
His life changed dramatically in 2007 when he auditioned for Indian Idol Season 3. With his simple personality, emotional voice and strong public support, Tamang went on to win the competition, becoming one of the most loved winners in the history of the show.
His victory was celebrated not just in Darjeeling but across North East India, Nepal and among Nepali-speaking communities worldwide. For many young artists from small towns and minority communities, Tamang became a symbol that dreams could come true despite limited resources.
Filmmaker Rajesh Ghatani later said that many Nepali singers who now perform on national and international stages were encouraged by Tamang’s success. “He gave confidence to an entire generation to step onto big platforms,” he said.
Music and acting career beyond Indian Idol
After his Indian Idol win, Prashant Tamang went on to release several Nepali music albums that remained popular among fans. His warm voice and emotional songs helped him maintain a strong connection with audiences long after his reality show fame.
Tamang also explored acting and appeared in several Nepali films, including Gorkha Paltan, Pardeshi, and Pardeshi 2. Gorkha Paltan, in particular, was well received and helped establish him as a serious performer.
In recent years, he expanded into Indian cinema and web series. He appeared in ‘Paatal Lok’ Season 2, one of India’s most talked-about streaming series, and also acted in Salman Khan’s war film ‘Battle of Galwan’. Actor Anup Bikram Shahi, who worked with him on that film, remembered Tamang as a friendly and talented colleague. “He had a great personality. I met him just a few months ago. It’s hard to believe he is gone,” Shahi said.
Last days and family
According to people close to him, Tamang had recently returned to Delhi after completing a programme in Arunachal Pradesh. He had not shown any signs of serious illness before the cardiac arrest.
He had been living in Janakpuri, New Delhi, with his family. He is survived by his wife Geeta Thapa and their young daughter. Family members and close friends, including his Indian Idol colleague Amit Paul, helped share the news with the public after his death.
Final farewell in Darjeeling
On Tuesday, Tamang’s mortal remains were taken to Darjeeling, where thousands of fans, friends and family members gathered to pay their respects. His last rites were performed at Alubari-Murdahati on the outskirts of the town, following Buddhist rituals.
From his residence at Lower Tungsung to the cremation ground, people lined the streets to bid farewell to the singer who had brought pride to the hills.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent a condolence message to the family, calling Tamang an inspiration whose life story reflected the hopes and dreams of countless young people.
A voice that united communities
Prashant Tamang was more than a singer or actor. For millions of Nepali speakers in India and abroad, he represented visibility, confidence and belonging. From a small hill town to national fame, his journey showed that talent and perseverance could overcome social and economic barriers.
Though his life ended far too soon, his songs, performances and story will continue to inspire young artists across the region for years to come.
