The shocking news of death of the 20-year-old winner of Amul Star Voice of India 2007 contest, Ishmeet Singh left his fans stunned and the whole nation gripped in grief. His family was plunged into sorrow.

The reality show winner and singing sensation Ishmeet was in Maldives to participate in the Star Voice of Maldives on August 1. He drowned in a swimming pool at Dhonveli Beach and Spa Resort on Tuesday evening. He ventured deep into the pool while he never could swim and the lifeguard wasn’t available to help. He was there with his friends but alas! None of the boys could swim.

He was taken by a resort launch to ADK hospital in Male’ but he couldn’t saved, according to assistant manager Marlon Robert.

Ishmeet was crowned the winner of Amul Star Voice in November 24, 2007, by the legendary Lata Mangeshkar. Recently, he had even released a Punjabi album called Gurbani.

“It was a real shock for me as the death of a musical gem came as unbelievable to me. I still can’t imagine that he is no more with us,” said Music Director, Lalit Sen.

One of his relative said, “He informed me of his plans to Maldives. We had a function at home and I insisted he stay back, but he prioritized for his trip and I can’t believe that the same God has taken him from us.”

Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal also expressed his shock. “It’s a shock for the entire nation. I am here to be a part of the grieved family,” he said.

His body is to be airlifted to India today afternoon.