The Indian entertainment industry is in shock following the sudden and untimely demise of popular singer and actor Prashant Tamang. The 43-year-old artist, who rose to national fame as the winner of Indian Idol Season 3, reportedly passed away due to a sudden cardiac arrest at his residence in Janakpuri, New Delhi, on the morning of January 11, 2026.
According to close associates, Tamang was found unresponsive in the morning. His family rushed him to a nearby hospital in West Delhi, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The news has sent a wave of grief across his massive fan base, particularly in the North East, West Bengal, and Nepal, where he was hailed as a cultural icon.
Prashant Tamang’s life story remains one of the most inspirational “rags-to-riches” tales in Indian television history. Before his musical breakthrough, Tamang served as a constable in the Kolkata Police. Encouraged by his colleagues who recognized his vocal talent, he auditioned for Indian Idol in 2007.
His journey on the show became a movement, garnering over 70 million votes in the finale and uniting the Gorkha community and fans across the country. His victory was not just a win for a singer but a symbol of hope for millions.
While he remained a celebrated playback singer in the Nepali film industry with hits like Gorkha Paltan, Tamang recently reinvented himself as a formidable actor in the Hindi digital space. He earned widespread critical acclaim for his role in Season 2 of Prime Video’s Paatal Lok.
In the series, he portrayed Daniel Acho, a cold-blooded and silent assassin/sniper. His transition from a soulful singer to a gritty, menacing performer surprised and impressed both fans and critics alike.
The news of his passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from politicians, musicians, and co-stars. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences, highlighting his deep roots in the Darjeeling hills and his service with the Kolkata Police.
“Deeply saddened by the sudden and untimely demise of Prashant Tamang. His soulful voice and inspiring journey from a small town to winning Indian Idol touched many lives. My condolences to his family, friends, and fans,” the CM shared on X.
Amit Paul, his close friend and Indian Idol 3 runner-up, shared an emotional message on Instagram: “How is it even fair! The world won’t be the same without you. My brother, my dosti… I still cannot process this.” Legendary singer Udit Narayan, who judged Tamang during his reality show days, also expressed his heartbreak, calling him a “true gentleman with a distinct voice.”
Prashant Tamang is survived by his wife, Martha Aley (Geeta Thapa), and their four-year-old daughter, Ariah. Known as a devoted family man, his social media was often filled with videos of him singing to his daughter.
Fans will have one final chance to see him on the big screen. Tamang had recently completed filming for the massive military drama Battle of Galwan, starring Salman Khan. The film is set for a theatrical release on April 17, 2026, and will now serve as a poignant swansong for the beloved artist.
The Delhi Police have confirmed that no foul play is suspected, and a post-mortem examination was conducted at Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Hospital. Reports suggest that the family is currently discussing whether to perform the final rites in Delhi or take his mortal remains back to his hometown, Darjeeling, to allow the community to pay their last respects.
As the sun sets on the life of a man who unified the hills and the plains through music, Prashant Tamang leaves behind a legacy of humility and talent that will continue to resonate for generations.
