Prateek Yadav, the younger son of Mulayam Singh Yadav and stepbrother of Akhilesh Yadav, died on Wednesday morning in Lucknow after suddenly falling ill. He was 38. The unexpected news has sent shockwaves through political circles and among supporters of the Yadav family across Uttar Pradesh.
According to sources, Prateek’s health deteriorated in the early hours of the morning. People present at his residence rushed him to a nearby civil hospital around 5:10 AM. Doctors attempted to treat him immediately after he arrived, but he was declared dead at around 6 AM. Medical authorities are expected to conduct a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
Prateek Yadav belonged to one of the most prominent political families in Uttar Pradesh, yet he largely stayed away from active politics. His father, Mulayam Singh Yadav, founded the Samajwadi Party and served several terms as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. His stepbrother, Akhilesh Yadav, later carried forward the political legacy and also served as the state’s Chief Minister.
Despite this strong political background, Prateek chose a different path. Known among friends and followers as a fitness enthusiast, he maintained a disciplined lifestyle and frequently shared workout videos and health-related content on social media. Those who knew him describe him as someone who preferred a private life and kept himself away from the political spotlight.
Prateek was married to Aparna Yadav, who joined the Bharatiya Janata Party and currently serves as the Vice-Chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh State Women Commission. While Prateek stayed away from political activities, Aparna remained active in public life and political affairs.
Earlier this year, the couple had briefly come into the public spotlight due to personal differences that surfaced on social media. In January, Prateek had posted messages accusing his wife of damaging family relations and had even mentioned the possibility of divorce. However, within days, he clarified through another video that the dispute had been resolved through mutual discussion. The couple later appeared together again on social media, indicating that the matter had been settled.
After news of his sudden death broke, several political leaders and parties expressed their condolences. The Samajwadi Party said in a brief message that Prateek Yadav’s passing was extremely heartbreaking and offered prayers for peace to the departed soul.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed grief over the sudden loss. In his condolence message, he described Prateek’s demise as deeply saddening and extended sympathy to the bereaved family. He prayed for peace for the departed soul and strength for the family to bear the loss.
Prateek Yadav was also known for his love for animals and his support for animal welfare initiatives. People close to him say he regularly helped animal shelters and showed compassion toward stray and injured animals.
He was the son of Mulayam Singh Yadav and his second wife, Sadhna Gupta. His death comes as another emotional blow to the family, which had already faced the loss of Mulayam Singh Yadav in 2022.
Family members, relatives, and supporters have started gathering in Lucknow following the tragic news. Further details regarding the funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.