Indian Idol 3 singer Prashant Tamang passes away at 43, Anu Malik pays tribute

prashant tamang and anu malik

• Indian Idol 3 winner Prashant Tamang dies at 43 from cardiac arrest in New Delhi
• Tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, including composer Anu Malik
• Tamang was praised for his music, acting, and inspirational journey

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The entertainment world is mourning the sudden demise of Prashant Tamang, the beloved singer and actor who first captured national attention as the winner of Indian Idol Season 3. Tamang passed away on January 11, 2026, at the age of 43 in his New Delhi residence, reportedly due to a cardiac arrest — a loss that has left fans, colleagues, and the music industry in shock.

Among those paying tribute is veteran music composer and Indian Idol judge Anu Malik, who fondly remembered Tamang’s dedication and talent. During an interview with Hindustan Times, Anu Malik recalled the time he realised about Prashant's death. He shared, "I was in a recording and this news has spaced me out completely. I had seen his struggle, seen him grow, take my criticism and praise. He would take my feedback, makes changes in the mukhda, antra and ask me how is it sounding? I had never seen such madness in anybody, I would tell him to take it easy but that guy was a workaholic and superb human being."

The singer further added, "We just lost Zubeen Garg and how do I process this news now? He had a full life ahead in terms of music and shows. I would tell him he should do more shows. My heart goes out to the family and I hope God gives them tremendous strength to bear the loss.'

Tamang shot to fame in 2007 when he won Indian Idol 3, becoming an inspirational figure especially among the Gorkha and Nepali-speaking communities for both his musical prowess and humble beginnings. Born on January 4, 1983, in Darjeeling, West Bengal, he initially served as a constable in the Kolkata Police, performing with the police orchestra before his breakthrough on national television.

His career later expanded into acting; most recently, he was seen in the acclaimed web series Paatal Lok 2, earning praise for his performance. Fans have also unearthed videos of some of his final live performances, including a December 2025 set in Dubai that drew widespread admiration online.

Also read: Prashant Tamang, Indian Idol 3 winner and Paatal Lok 2 actor, dies at 43; friends recall his surprise role in the hit series

In the wake of his untimely passing — just days after his 43rd birthday — heartfelt tributes have poured in across social platforms, with admirers recounting how his voice and journey touched their lives.