Neighbourhood mourns death of boy who took music scene by storm
Times of India | 12 January 2026
Darjeeling: While the nation mourns Prashant Tamang, the winner of the third season of Indian Idol, his childhood friends in Toongsoong, Darjeeling, will always remember him as Arpan. From an early age, Arpan was drawn to music, inspired by his grandfather, a sitar player. While the country celebrated his voice, those who knew him as a boy remember a shy, playful child whose love for music was as natural as it was profound.
Friends, family, and neighbours in Darjeeling are in shock following the sudden demise of Tamang, who passed away at the age of 43 due to cardiac arrest in Delhi on Sunday morning. Charles Benedict Rai, a childhood friend and resident of Toongsoong, said: "We have so many childhood memories together. We heard that his body will arrive at his residence on Monday. He was shy but open with friends. We used to go and play by the riverside and called him Arpan. From childhood, he was inclined towards music, taking inspiration from his grandfather, and later showcasing his talent on Indian Idol."
Rai added that he last met Tamang in 2002 before leaving for Kolkata for further studies. "When I returned after my graduation, I was shocked to see him on Indian Idol, and he went on to win the title. He last visited his hometown during Durga Puja last year, but I couldn't meet him then," he recalled. Sudarshan Ghimarj, another resident of Toongsoong, said, "We are speechless after hearing the news."
According to his family, Tamang's last rites will be held in Darjeeling. His house, usually kept locked, is managed by his sister Anupama Gurung, who confirmed that his body will be brought home on Monday. She was travelling to Delhi when TOI contacted her.
Deepali Tamang, a neighbour, said, "Prashant left a lasting impression on the Gorkha community, and we were proud of him. When he went for Indian Idol, Gorkhas across the country voted for him and helped him win. It's heartbreaking that we lost him; the entire village is mourning. We pray for his departed soul and hope his name lives on."
She added that he planned to celebrate his daughter Ariah's birthday in Darjeeling this year. "He usually stayed in Delhi with his wife Martha, their daughter, and his mother-in-law. His house here is often locked," she said.
Anit Thapa, chief executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), expressed condolences, noting Tamang's support in his political journey. "I am speechless at the news of Indian Idol Season 3 winner Prashant Tamang's demise. He played a significant role in the beginning of my political journey. I instructed the director of the cultural department, Samden Dukpa, and singer Mahesh Sewa to coordinate the transportation of Tamang's body from Delhi to Darjeeling. I pray for the peace of his soul," Thapa said.