Who was Prashant Tamang? Indian Idol Season 3 Winner, Dies at 43; Read Details

Prashant Tamang, the winner of Indian Idol Season 3, has died at the age of 43. The musician and Kolkata Police officer rose to prominence in 2007, inspiring millions with his story.

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Who was Prashant Tamang?

Prashant Tamang, a prominent singer and actor who came to national popularity after winning 'Indian Idol Season 3' in 2007, died today, January 11, 2026, in New Delhi. According to reports, Tamang was discovered dead at his home, with preliminary findings indicating a sudden heart attack, while formal medical confirmation is pending. He was 43.

According to reports, Prashant had just returned to the city after a live concert in Arunachal Pradesh and had no major health problems.

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Tamang's path from Kolkata Police policeman to household figure in South Asia inspired millions. He has received international praise for his passionate portrayal as Daniel Lecho in Season 2 of 'Paatal Lok', and songs like 'Bir Gorkhali' and 'Asare Mahinama' remain potent cultural anthems.

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Prashant Tamang's Journey to Fame

Prashant Tamang's rise to prominence remains one of Indian reality television's most moving underdog stories. Tamang, then a policeman with the Kolkata Police, auditioned for 'Indian Idol Season 3' in 2007 with no industry backing but an undeniable genuineness that struck a chord throughout the country. 

What followed was an unprecedented surge of popular support, notably from Darjeeling, the Gorkha people, and India's Northeast, transforming his ascension into a cultural event rather than a television win. His eventual victory was hailed not only as a musical triumph, but also as a rare confirmation that authenticity, regional pride, and perseverance could still rewrite the rules of mainstream fame.

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Prashant Tamang's Family

Prashant Tamang is survived by his wife, Geeta Thapa, who he married in Nagaland in 2011, and their daughter, Ariah. Despite his celebrity and professional success, Tamang remained strongly entrenched in family life, frequently prioritising his loved ones and citing them as his most powerful source of strength and purpose.