Indian Idol Winner Singer & Actor Prashant Tamang Passes Away at 43

Tribute: New Delhi — Renowned singer, actor, and Indian Idol Season 3 (2007) winner Prashant Tamang passed away following a heart attack on January 11, 2026, at the age of 43. Celebrated for his melodious voice, humility, and inspirational life journey, Tamang was a trailblazing figure who brought international recognition to the Nepali diaspora and helped redefine modern Nepali identity on global platforms.

According to reports, Tamang suffered a cardiac arrest at his New Delhi residence on January 11. He was immediately rushed to Dwarka Hospital, where doctors confirmed that he had passed away while being transported.

(Prashant Tamang: 4 January 1983 – 11 January 2026)

Tamang rose to national prominence after winning Indian Idol Season 3 in 2007, becoming the first Nepali-speaking singer to achieve such a milestone on a major Indian reality television platform. His victory marked a historic moment for Nepali communities in India and across the world.

Career in Music and Cinema

Beyond his musical success, Prashant Tamang established a notable acting career in Nepali cinema. His filmography includes Gorkha Paltan (2010), Angalo Yo Mayako (2011), Kina Maya Ma (2011), Nishani (2014), Pardeshi-1 (2015), Pardeshi-2 (2023), Ladai Pahichanko, and Ae Maya Haanai Ma (2026).

He also appeared in Amazon Prime Video’s crime series Paatal Lok – Season 2 and had completed work on the much-anticipated Bollywood mega-film Battle of Galwan (2026), starring Salman Khan, which is yet to be released.

Early Life and Background

Born in Darjeeling, West Bengal, Prashant Tamang was married to Geeta Thapa Magar, and the couple has a daughter, Ariya. Before his rise to fame, Tamang served as a Kolkata Police constable. Following his Indian Idol success and extensive national and international tours, he remained absent from duty between 2009 and 2014, which eventually led to his suspension from the police force.

Legacy and Impact

Prashant Tamang is widely regarded as a pioneering representative of the Nepali diaspora, instrumental in introducing Nepali talent and cultural identity to a global audience. His groundbreaking journey paved the way for future generations, including Teriya Magar, winner of Dance India Dance Little Masters (2014) and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa Season 9 (2017), and Samarpan Lama, winner of India’s Best Dancer Season 3 (2023)—both shining examples of Nepali excellence on Indian entertainment platforms.

The passing of Prashant Tamang is a profound loss to the worlds of music and cinema, as well as to the global Nepali community. Tributes continue to pour in from fans, artists, and community leaders, remembering him not only as a gifted performer but also as a humble and inspirational figure whose voice, courage, and legacy will continue to resonate for generations.