Text: Binu Sundas in Darjeeling

The hills of Darjeeling are burning again. But this time with mobile phones and landlines instead of guns and kukris.

And all because of one boy, Prashant Tamang, a resident of Darjeeling and the finalist on the third Indian Idol contest on Sony Entertainment Television. The other finalist is Amit Paul from Shillong.

Prashant seems to have succeeded where the politicians have failed -- and that is to successfully unite the Nepalis, not only in Darjeeling but across the country. Just recently, a ban on liquor was enforced in Darjeeling to curb trouble during voting. Talk about star power!

Before all the hysteria, few had heard of Prashant, who hails from a humble family. Like most families in the hills, his father was the sole breadwinner, employed with the Calcutta police.

His father's untimely demise forced Prashant to join the Calcutta police when he was a student at St Roberts High School, Darjeeling. "He is a very responsible person," says a neighbour who vows to vote and make Prashant the next Indian Idol.

After joining the force he joined the police orchestra and was encouraged by his friends. Says policeman Niten Pradhan, "He has always been a down-to-earth person and has not changed a bit even after so much of success and fame."

In the picture: A free voting booth set up by people, to vote for Prashant.

Also read: 'Amit Paul' mania grips Shillong

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