Darjeeling: Singer and actor Prashant Tamang, who rose from a modest background to national fame after winning Indian Idol in 2007, passed away on Sunday morning at his residence in New Delhi. He was 43. Family sources said he suffered a cardiac arrest.
Hailing from Darjeeling in West Bengal, Tamang’s journey remains one of the most inspiring in Indian popular culture. A serving constable with the Kolkata Police and without formal musical training, he auditioned for Indian Idol with quiet confidence. His earthy, emotive voice and humility struck a chord with audiences across the country, leading him to defeat Shillong’s Amit Paul in a landmark finale.
For the Gorkha community across Darjeeling, Sikkim and neighbouring hill regions, Tamang’s victory became a moment of collective pride. Fondly known as “Pahar ka Gaurav” (Pride of the Hills), he emerged as a cultural icon who represented aspiration, unity and perseverance.
Following his win, Tamang built a career in music, releasing albums in Hindi and Nepali, before successfully transitioning into acting. He featured in several popular Nepali films, including Gorkha Paltan, Angalo Yo Maya Ko and Nishani. In recent years, he also impressed audiences with his intense performance as a sniper in the second season of the acclaimed web series Paatal Lok.
Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry and among fans nationwide, with many remembering his simplicity, resilience and the hope his journey symbolised. Prashant Tamang is survived by his wife, Geeta Thapa, and their daughter. His life stands as a reminder that dreams, regardless of origin, can be realised through courage and belief.
