Singer and actor Prashant Tamang has passed away at the age of 43 after reportedly suffering a heart attack. He breathed his last at his residence in New Delhi, leaving fans and the entertainment industry in shock.

Hailing from Darjeeling, Tamang rose to nationwide fame after winning Season 3 of Sony Entertainment Television’s popular singing reality show Indian Idol in 2004. He secured a historic victory, receiving over 700 lakh votes in the finale, nearly ten times more than runner-up Amit Paul.

Following his Indian Idol success, Tamang launched an independent music career and released his debut album 'Dhanyavad', which featured songs in both Hindi and Nepali. He went on to lend his voice to several Nepali films, including Gorkha Paltan (2010), Angalo Yo Maya Ko, and Himmat 2 (2013).

Tamang also established himself as an actor in Nepali cinema, making his debut with Gorkha Paltan. His filmography included Angalo Yo Maya Ko, Kina Maya Ma (2011), Nishani (2014), Pardesi (2015), and Ye Maya Hanaima. Films such as Gorkha Paltan and Nishani, both centered on Gorkha bravery, emerged as major blockbusters in Nepal.

Filmmaker Rajesh Ghatani confirmed Prashant Tamang’s death, while Darjeeling-based singer Mahesh Sewa stated that the singer reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her grief on X, writing, “Saddened by the sudden and untimely demise today of Prashant Tamang, the popular singer of ‘Indian Idol’ fame and an artist of national renown. His roots in our Darjeeling hills and one-time association with Kolkata Police made him particularly dear to us in Bengal. I convey my condolences to his family, friends, and countless followers.”

Fellow Indian Idol contestant Amit Paul also paid tribute via Instagram, writing, “How's it even fair!!! Keep smiling, Dosti!!! The world won't be the same without you!!! I still cannot process this. My brother, my friend, my dosti prashanttamangofficial has left for the heavenly abode. I can't believe I'm having to write this.”

BJP MP Raju Bista from Darjeeling shared a heartfelt message as well, stating, “The untimely demise of Prashant Tamang, the popular singer and actor who shone brightly on the stage of Indian Idol across the entire Hindi and Nepali music worlds, has left the entire realm of art and music, including Hindi and Nepali, stunned and deeply heartbroken.”

Tributes poured in soon after the news was confirmed. One user wrote, “Indian Idol winner and actor Prashant Tamang, the first and only Gorkha Indian to win the show, has passed away. Rest in peace, beautiful soul.”

Atnoher shared, “his news came as shocking for all of us. And just like the rest of Nepalese people, I also grew up listening to one of his hit songs, ‘Ashare Mahinama’. This song will forever be etched in our memory. Rest in peace, Prashant Tamang.”

A third tribute read, “Deeply saddened by the sudden demise of renowned singer and actor Prashant Tamang. The Indian Idol Season 3 winner leaves behind a legacy of music, humility, and inspiration. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fans. May his soul rest in peace.”

Millions were inspired by Tamang’s journey from serving as a constable with the Kolkata Police to becoming a celebrated artist across South Asia. Songs like Bir Gorkhali and Asare Mahinama remain powerful cultural anthems, and he also received praise for his passionate performance as Daniel Lecho in Season 2 of Paatal Lok.

As tributes and condolences continue to flood social media, Prashant Tamang is remembered not only for his music and acting, but also for the inspiration his life journey gave to millions.