Actor-singer Prashant Tamang, known for winning Indian Idol Season 3 and his role in the web series "Paatal Lok," has died at the age of 43. According to reports, he passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at his residence in Delhi after suffering a heart attack.

Tamang's death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among his fans. Tributes and messages of condolence have been pouring in on social media. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is among those who have expressed their grief and offered condolences.

Prashant Tamang, born on January 4, 1983, in Darjeeling, India, rose to prominence after winning Indian Idol in 2007. His victory was particularly celebrated by the Gorkha community, as he became a symbol of their identity and pride. He secured approximately 70 million votes in the Indian Idol 3 finale, which was about 10 times more votes than Amit Paul, the first runner-up.

Before entering the entertainment industry, Tamang served as a constable in the Kolkata Police, a background that contributed to his public image during the Indian Idol competition. According to the Indian Idol program commentary, Tamang auditioned for Indian Idol 3 because his friends and seniors told him that his voice was very good. After his win on Indian Idol, he released his debut album, "Dhanyavad," in 2007, featuring songs in both Hindi and Nepali.

Beyond his singing career, Tamang also ventured into acting, primarily in Nepali films. He made his acting debut in "Gorkhapaltan 2". Some of his notable films include "Angalo Mayako," "Kin Mayama," "Dhadkan Bhitra," "Nishani," and "Pardeshi". He also contributed as a playback singer to films like "Dil," "Anmol Chhan," and "Himmat 2". More recently, he appeared in the second season of the Amazon Prime Video series "Paatal Lok," and had a role in the upcoming Bollywood film "Battle of Galwan". He was preparing for dubbing for the film.

Nanda Kirati Dewan, the General Secretary of the Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh (Assam State), said that Tamang's death is an "irreparable loss" and that "He helped the Gorkha artists get recognition". Amit Paul, a fellow contestant and close friend from Indian Idol, shared a tribute on Instagram, expressing his disbelief and sorrow.

Prashant Tamang is survived by his wife, Geeta Thapa, an air hostess, whom he married in 2011, and their daughter.