Who Was Prateek Yadav? Mulayam Singh Yadav’s Son and Fitness Entrepreneur Dies at 38

Mulayam Singh Yadav’s 38-year-old apolitical son, Prateek Yadav , died in Lucknow on May 13, 2026, marking a tragic chapter for the Yadav family. While his father and stepbrother, Akhilesh Yadav, became synonymous with Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape, Prateek consciously chose a different path. Born to Mulayam Singh Yadav and his second wife, Sadhna Gupta, Prateek was a man of diverse interests who preferred the weight room and the boardroom over the political stage.

A Life Dedicated to Fitness and Business

Prateek’s journey began with a prestigious education at the University of Leeds, where he earned an MBA. After returning to India, he ventured into the real estate and fitness industries. He founded “The Fitness Planet” (also known as Iron Core Fit), one of Lucknow’s most popular premium gyms. His dedication to bodybuilding was widely recognised, and he was regarded as a fitness role model by many in the city. Through his platform, he consistently promoted a healthy lifestyle rather than political ideologies.

The "Quiet" Member of a Loud Dynasty

In a family where power was the primary language, Prateek’s apolitical stance was significant. While his wife, Aparna Yadav, became a prominent political figure (first with the Samajwadi Party and later joining the BJP), Prateek remained in the background. He once famously stated that his interests lay elsewhere, and he did not wish to complicate the political legacies of his father and brother. Despite this, he maintained a close, albeit sometimes complex, bond with the family, often appearing at family events to support his stepbrother Akhilesh.

Advocacy for Animal Welfare

Apart from his business ventures, Prateek was also known for his love for animals. He actively worked for the welfare of stray animals through his organisation, ‘Jeev Ashray’. He frequently advocated for the rescue, treatment, and humane birth control of stray dogs and reportedly appealed for stronger and more compassionate animal welfare measures. His philanthropic efforts earned him admiration beyond political and social circles.

Final Hours and Tribute

The news of his sudden illness and subsequent passing at Lucknow’s Civil Hospital has led to an outpouring of grief. He was rushed to the facility early in the morning after reporting he felt unwell; doctors declared him brought dead shortly before 6:00 AM. Leaders from across the political spectrum, including UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Akhilesh Yadav, have expressed profound shock, calling his death a loss that is "extremely heartbreaking."

As the family prepares for his final rites, Prateek Yadav is being remembered as a man who chose individuality over political inheritance. Despite belonging to one of India’s most influential political families, he carved out a distinct identity through fitness, business, and social causes.