By Mohammad Tarique Saleem
The sudden and tragic demise of Prateek Yadav on May 13 has cast a deep shadow of grief across Lucknow and the political circles of Uttar Pradesh. Prateek Yadav, the younger son of late Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav and husband of BJP leader Aparna Yadav, passed away at the age of 38, leaving family members, friends, and supporters heartbroken. His untimely death has come as a shock to many, especially because he was known to maintain a low-profile yet influential presence in social and family circles.
On May 14, Prateek Yadav was cremated at the famous Bhaisakund Cremation Ground, also known as Baikunthdham, where hundreds of people gathered to bid a final farewell. The atmosphere at the cremation ground was filled with sorrow, emotion, and silence as relatives and supporters struggled to accept the painful reality of his passing. The funeral procession witnessed an overwhelming turnout, reflecting the affection and respect people had for him despite his distance from active politics.
Prateek Yadav’s final journey began from his residence in Lucknow. Family members, political leaders, close associates, and supporters accompanied the procession. Emotional scenes unfolded as many people were seen crying and consoling one another. Slogans in his memory echoed through the streets while mourners paid tribute to a man remembered for his humble nature, fitness enthusiasm, and compassionate personality.
The cremation ceremony became even more emotional when Prateek Yadav’s father-in-law, veteran journalist Arvind Bisht, performed the last rites and lit the funeral pyre. The grief on the faces of the Yadav family members was clearly visible. Akhilesh Yadav arrived to bid an emotional farewell to his younger brother. Along with him, senior Samajwadi Party leaders and family members including Shivpal Singh Yadav, Dharmendra Yadav, and Aditya Yadav participated in the final rituals.
Prateek Yadav’s wife Aparna Yadav and their daughters were also present during the cremation. The heartbreaking visuals from the cremation ground touched the emotions of people across the state. Leaders from different political ideologies attended the funeral, proving that Prateek Yadav was respected beyond political affiliations. Several BJP and Samajwadi Party leaders paid tribute and offered condolences to the grieving family. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak was among the prominent leaders present during the final rites.
Prateek Yadav had been dealing with health-related complications for some time. Medical findings reportedly stated that the immediate cause of death was a massive pulmonary thromboembolism, leading to sudden cardiorespiratory failure. However, reports mentioning certain unexplained injuries in the postmortem examination have also sparked public curiosity and discussions. Authorities are expected to examine all aspects related to the incident to bring complete clarity to the circumstances surrounding his death.
Despite belonging to one of Uttar Pradesh’s most influential political families, Prateek Yadav largely stayed away from frontline politics. Instead, he focused on fitness, business activities, and personal interests. He was widely recognized as a fitness enthusiast who inspired many young people through his disciplined lifestyle. Apart from fitness, he was also known for his love for animals and his simple, grounded personality. Those close to him often described him as soft-spoken, respectful, and deeply connected to his family. His untimely demise at such a young age has created a void that will be difficult to fill for his loved ones.
The pain was evident during the cremation as relatives embraced each other in tears while prayers were offered for the departed soul. Supporters standing outside the cremation ground also expressed disbelief and sorrow over the tragic loss. As flames rose from the funeral pyre at Bhaisakund Cremation Ground on May 14, Lucknow witnessed an emotional goodbye to a son, husband, brother, and friend whose life ended far too early. Prateek Yadav’s death has not only shaken his family but has also left thousands mourning the loss of a man remembered for his quiet dignity and compassionate nature.
