Following the demise of Prashant Tamang, winner of Indian Idol Season 3 and a popular singer, artists in Darjeeling have demanded that his last rites be performed in Darjeeling itself.
In response to this collective wish and appeal of the artistic community, it has been decided that the final rites of the late Tamang will be conducted in his birthplace, Darjeeling.
“Prashant’s mortal remains will arrive at Bagdogra Airport tomorrow at 12 noon,” said Darjeeling-based musician Mahesh Seva, adding, “From there, the body will be taken to Darjeeling.”
After being brought to Darjeeling, the body will be kept for some time at the Information and Culture Department under the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) to allow people to pay their final respects, informed Anuj Thapa, Director of the Information and Culture Department.
GTA Chief Anit Thapa has also instructed the concerned authorities to make all necessary arrangements for Prashant Tamang’s funeral in Darjeeling. It has been stated that he will be cremated with state honors. He further said that arrangements are being made to allow the residents of Darjeeling, artists, and well-wishers to pay their last tributes.
Filmmaker Rajesh Ghatani, welcoming the GTA’s decision, said that Prashant’s contribution should not be taken lightly. “Prashant was an inspiring personality who took Nepali talent to an international reality show platform. Through music and acting, he connected Nepalis across the world,” he said. “Therefore, Darjeeling cannot afford to overlook his contribution.”
Darjeeling-based musician Seva also expressed satisfaction over the decision to hold Prashant’s last rites in Darjeeling. “Prashant was our pride. Being able to bid farewell with honor in his birthplace to an artist who rose from the soil of Darjeeling and gave Nepalis an identity across the world is truly significant,” he said. “All artists have come together to prepare for his dignified farewell.”
Prashant’s ancestral home is located in the Lower Tungsoong area below Chowrasta in Darjeeling. However, the house is now deserted. His elder sister lives in Kolkata, his younger sister is married in Sikkim, his mother passed away last year, and his father had died when Prashant was very young.
He passed away on Sunday due to a heart attack.
