Family members and relatives pay their last respects as the mortal remains of Prashant Tamang arrive in his hometown Darjeeling. (Express Photo)
Thousands of people in tears gathered at the Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal’s Siliguri to pay last respects to Prashant Tamang as the Indian Idol star’s body arrived from Delhi Monday. The mortal remains were set to be taken to his hometown, Darjeeling, for the funeral.
Tamang, 43, passed away Sunday after a heart attack at his residence in New Delhi. The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) arranged for Tamang’s body to be brought to the hills. MP Raju Bista, GTA Chief Executive Anit Thapa and others paid their respects to Tamang at the airport.
Meanwhile, Prashant Tamang Fan Club has organised a memorial programme in the hills. As his body travels from the airport, the residents of the hills will pay their tribute to him at various locations, including Shalbari, Rohini, and Kurseong.
Tamang’s sister Anupama Gurung said, “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.”
In 2007, Tamang, a boy from a middle-class family in the hills, gained fame by winning Indian Idol, the musical reality show. His music united the entire Gorkha community. He also acted in the web series Paatal Lok Season 2. His success was not merely personal; it became a symbol of pride and identity for the entire Gorkha community.
MP Raju Bista said, “It was because of Prashant Tamang that the Gorkhas of the entire hills once came together. This loss can never be compensated. A boy from a middle-class family in the hills once won Indian Idol with his voice. Prashant Tamang was a bright star of the Gorkha community, and it is a huge loss for people from our community.”
Tamang, a resident of Raghu Nagar in Delhi, was pronounced dead at 3.10 pm Sunday. Mata Chanan Devi Hospital informed the police about his death. According to sources, the police and a forensic team collected evidence and conducted a post-mortem examination.
The police have taken a statement from his wife Geeta Thapa. He is survived by his mother, two sisters, and his wife.
Curated by Aisha Patel
