The hills of West Bengal are draped in sorrow as thousands of grieving admirers bid a tearful farewell to Prashant Tamang, the beloved 2007 Indian Idol winner. The mortal remains of the singer, who passed away at the age of 43, arrived at Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri on Monday, January 12, 2026, marking the beginning of his final journey home to Darjeeling.
A Nation's Pride Returns Home
A sea of mourners, their eyes filled with tears, gathered at the airport to pay their last respects to the man they called the 'pride of the hills'. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the community united in grief for their brightest star. The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) facilitated the transportation of his body from New Delhi to his homeland. Dignitaries including MP Raju Bista and GTA Chief Executive Anit Thapa were present at the airport to honour the departed soul.
Prashant Tamang, a resident of Raghu Nagar in Delhi, was pronounced dead at 3:10 PM on Sunday, January 11, following a heart attack at his residence. The Mata Chanan Devi Hospital informed the local police, after which a forensic team conducted the necessary procedures. The police have recorded a statement from his wife, Geeta Thapa. He is survived by his mother, two sisters, and his wife.
A Journey of Melody and Unity
In 2007, Tamang, hailing from a middle-class family in the hills, captured the nation's heart with his voice, winning the prestigious musical reality show. His victory transcended personal achievement; it became a powerful symbol of identity and collective pride for the entire Gorkha community. His music acted as a unifying force, bringing together people from across the region. Beyond singing, he also showcased his talent as an actor in the web series Paatal Lok Season 2.
As the convoy carrying his body proceeded from the airport towards Darjeeling, residents lined the route at locations including Shalbari, Rohini, and Kurseong to offer their tributes. The Prashant Tamang Fan Club has also organized memorial programs in the hills to celebrate his life and legacy.
An Immortal Legacy in Hearts and Songs
Expressing the family's profound loss, his sister Anupama Gurung stated, "My brother lived in the hearts of the people of India; he still does, and he always will. He will remain immortal through his melody and his songs." This sentiment echoes the feelings of millions who saw in him a reflection of their dreams and aspirations.
MP Raju Bista poignantly summarized the community's loss: "It was because of Prashant Tamang that the Gorkhas of the entire hills once came together. This loss can never be compensated... Prashant Tamang was a bright star of the Gorkha community, and it is a huge loss for people from our community." His passing is not just the loss of a talented artist but the dimming of a beacon of hope and unity for a vibrant community. The final rites will be performed in his hometown, Darjeeling, where the boy from the hills will finally rest, leaving behind an indelible legacy of song and solidarity.
