Prashant Tamang, the celebrated winner of Indian Idol Season 3 and an actor known for his role in the web series "Paatal Lok," has passed away at the age of 43. Tamang died on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at his residence in New Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Born on January 4, 1983, in Darjeeling, West Bengal, to parents Madan Tamang and Rupa Tamang, Prashant Tamang's journey to fame was marked by humble beginnings and significant achievements. Before his rise to stardom, he served in the Kolkata Police, following in his father's footsteps. His friends and seniors encouraged him to audition for Indian Idol, recognizing his exceptional vocal talent.

Tamang's victory in Indian Idol 3 in 2007 was a momentous occasion, triggering celebrations across the Darjeeling hills, Sikkim, and among Nepalese communities worldwide. He secured the title by an overwhelming margin, receiving approximately 70 million votes, ten times more than the runner-up, Amit Paul. The win not only brought him national recognition but also a cash prize of 10 million Indian rupees and a Maruti Suzuki SX4 car. BJP MP from Darjeeling, Raju Bista, noted that Tamang's victory was a source of pride for all Gorkhas and played a significant role in introducing Nepali music to a broader audience.

Following his success on Indian Idol, Tamang launched his music career with his debut album, "Dhanyavad," featuring songs in both Hindi and Nepali. He also ventured into acting, with roles in Nepali films such as "Gorkha Paltan" (2010), "Angalo Yo Maya Ko," "Kina Maya Ma" (2011), "Nishani" (2014), "Pardesi" (2015), and "Ye Maya Hanaima". "Gorkha Paltan" and "Nishani" were particularly successful, becoming major blockbusters in Nepal. More recently, he gained recognition for his portrayal of Daniel Lecho, an assassin, in the second season of the Amazon Prime Video series "Paatal Lok". He is also slated to appear posthumously in the upcoming film "Battle of Galwan," scheduled for release on April 17.

Prashant Tamang is survived by his wife, Geeta Thapa, a former flight attendant whom he married in 2011, and their daughter, Ariah, who was born in July 2022.

News of Tamang's sudden demise has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, colleagues, and political figures. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences, acknowledging Tamang's connection to the Darjeeling hills and his prior association with the Kolkata Police. Fellow singer Pramod Kharel shared his shock on Facebook, and Amit Paul, the runner-up from Indian Idol 3, also expressed his sorrow on social media.

The family is currently deciding whether to hold the funeral in Delhi or Darjeeling.