Indian Idol 3 winner Prashant Tamang dies of cardiac arrest; CM Mamata expresses condolences

The music and entertainment industry is in a state of mourning following the sudden demise of Prashant Tamang, the winner of Indian Idol Season 3. The 43-year-old artist passed away on Sunday morning in New Delhi due to a suspected cardiac arrest. His co-contestant and close friend, Bhaven Dhanak, confirmed the news, stating that the death came as a massive shock to everyone as Tamang had no known prior health complications. He had recently returned to Delhi after a successful live performance in Arunachal Pradesh.

Tamang’s journey remains one of the most inspiring underdog stories in Indian reality television history. While serving as a constable with the Kolkata Police in 2007, he auditioned for Indian Idol and quickly became a symbol of hope for the Gorkha community and the Northeast. His victory, fueled by millions of votes from across the hills and beyond, transformed him into a cultural icon. Following his win, he balanced a prolific singing career in Hindi and Nepali music with a budding journey into acting, starring in several Nepali blockbusters.

In recent years, Prashant had successfully transitioned into the digital space, earning critical acclaim for his portrayal of 'Daniel Acho' in the hit series Paatal Lok Season 2. He was also highly excited about his upcoming Bollywood project, Salman Khan’s The Battle of Galwan, which had recently finished filming. Fans and colleagues remember him not just for his soulful voice but for his humility and the integrity he brought to every role he played, whether in uniform or on screen.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting his deep roots in Darjeeling and his past association with the Kolkata Police. Prashant is survived by his wife, Geeta Thapa, and their young child. As the industry awaits details on the funeral, tributes have poured in from fellow musicians and actors who describe him as a "true gentleman" and a pioneer who paved the way for many regional talents to dream big on the national stage.