Prateek Yadav, Mulayam's Younger Son, Dies at 38 in Lucknow
Prateek Yadav, son of late Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav and half-brother of Akhilesh Yadav, passed away at 38 in Lucknow. His sudden death led to a police investigation, with initial reports suggesting various potential causes pending autopsy results.
Key Highlights
- Prateek Yadav, 38, died suddenly in Lucknow on May 13, 2026.
- He was Mulayam Singh Yadav's younger son and Akhilesh Yadav's half-brother.
- Police initiated an investigation, sealing his room and seizing his phone.
- Known for business and fitness, he largely avoided active politics.
- Recent reports cited marital discord and business disputes involving him.
Prateek Yadav, the younger son of the late Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav and half-brother to party president Akhilesh Yadav, tragically passed away at the age of 38 in Lucknow on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. He was rushed to a civil hospital in the early hours of the day after suddenly falling ill but was declared 'brought dead' by doctors.
The exact cause of his death remains unconfirmed, pending a post-mortem examination. Hospital sources initially indicated the possibility of death due to consuming poison, though this has not been officially verified. Reports also suggest that Prateek Yadav had been suffering from lung-related issues and a blood clot in his lungs for some time.
Following his untimely demise, Uttar Pradesh police initiated an investigation, visiting the residence of his wife, BJP leader Aparna Yadav, and sealing Prateek's room. Investigators also seized his mobile phone as part of the ongoing probe, examining the circumstances in which he was found unconscious and his recent communication records. Statements from family members and household staff are expected to be recorded.
Prateek Yadav was the son of Mulayam Singh Yadav from his second wife, Sadhana Gupta. His elder half-brother, Akhilesh Yadav, is the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and the current president of the Samajwadi Party. Despite belonging to one of India's most prominent political dynasties, Prateek consciously chose to stay away from active politics.
Instead, he carved out his own identity as a fitness enthusiast and businessman. He owned and operated a popular gym chain in Lucknow, 'The Fitness Planet,' and was actively involved in real estate ventures, including property dealings, investments, and construction projects. Media reports in 2024 estimated his net worth to be between Rs 5.5 to Rs 7 crore, with an annual income of around Rs 1.5 crore, although his wife Aparna Yadav's election affidavits in the past indicated joint assets closer to Rs 23 crore. Prateek was also known for his lavish lifestyle, famously owning a Rs 5-crore Lamborghini, which often made headlines.
His personal life recently came under public scrutiny. In January 2026, Prateek Yadav reportedly posted on social media about seeking a divorce from his wife, Aparna Yadav, alleging that she was 'self-centred' and 'driven by fame and influence,' and caused rifts in his family ties, while also mentioning struggles with his mental health. However, he later announced a reconciliation with Aparna, sharing videos that suggested their dispute had been mutually resolved. Separately, Prateek had also filed a police complaint accusing a former business associate of financial fraud, extortion, and criminal intimidation involving over Rs 4 crore.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Akhilesh Yadav, and other political leaders from across party lines expressed their grief and condolences over Prateek Yadav's sudden passing. Akhilesh Yadav, visibly saddened, visited the Civil Hospital where his half-brother's mortal remains were kept, recalling Prateek's dedication to health and fitness. The political fraternity and the public await further details regarding the cause of death as the investigation continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Prateek Yadav?
Prateek Yadav was the younger son of the late Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, from his second wife Sadhana Gupta. He was also the half-brother of former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and current Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav. Prateek was known as a businessman and fitness enthusiast, owning a gym chain and engaging in real estate, largely staying away from active politics. He was married to BJP leader Aparna Yadav.
What was the cause of Prateek Yadav's death?
Prateek Yadav was declared 'brought dead' to a civil hospital in Lucknow on May 13, 2026, after suddenly falling ill. The exact cause of his death is yet to be officially confirmed, pending a post-mortem examination. Initial reports from hospital sources suggested the possibility of death due to consuming poison, while other reports indicated he had been suffering from lung problems and a blood clot in his lungs for some time.
When and where did Prateek Yadav pass away?
Prateek Yadav passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. He was rushed to a civil hospital in the city in the early hours of the day.
What is known about the investigation into his death?
Uttar Pradesh police have launched an investigation into Prateek Yadav's death. As part of the probe, police visited his residence, sealed his room, and seized his mobile phone. Investigators are examining the circumstances of his sudden illness, his digital activity, and recent communications. Statements from family members and household staff are also being recorded.
What was Prateek Yadav's relationship with Mulayam Singh Yadav and Akhilesh Yadav?
Prateek Yadav was the younger son of Mulayam Singh Yadav, born to his second wife Sadhana Gupta. He was the half-brother of Akhilesh Yadav, who is Mulayam Singh Yadav's elder son from his first wife, Malti Devi. Despite these prominent political connections, Prateek largely maintained a non-political profile.
