Actor Aamir Khan has dismissed the widely circulated claim that his character Phunsukh Wangdu (Rancho) in the 2009 film 3 Idiots was inspired by education reformer and innovator Sonam Wangchuk. Speaking at a public interaction during the London Indian Film Festival (LIFF), Khan said the film's makers were unaware of Wangchuk when the screenplay was written.
"There is a misconception that 3 Idiots was based on Sonam Wangchuk's life. That is not true. When the film was being written, we had no information about Sonam Wangchuk, and I did not know him personally," Khan said.
The actor clarified that while the film was not based on Wangchuk, he supports the activist's work and expressed concern over his health as Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike.
"The work Sonam Wangchuk is doing is absolutely right. He is on a hunger strike, and many people feel he should end it now because his health is deteriorating," Khan added.
Khan also responded to remarks made by his 3 Idiots co-star Omi Vaidya, who portrayed Chatur Ramalingam in the film. In a recent video supporting Wangchuk's protest, Vaidya had repeated the claim that the character of Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by the Ladakhi innovator.
Rejecting that assertion, Khan said: "What Chatur (Omi Vaidya) said in the video is incorrect."
He further stated that Wangchuk's contributions should be recognised independently of any connection to the film.
"Sonam Wangchuk's work doesn't have to be based on a character of 3 Idiots for us to respect him."
Wangchuk is currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability and systemic reforms in the education sector following allegations of irregularities in national entrance examinations, including NEET.
According to medical updates shared by those monitoring his health, the prolonged fast has resulted in significant weight loss and raised concerns over his physical condition, prompting appeals from several public figures and supporters for him to end the protest.
While clarifying the origins of 3 Idiots, Khan joined those urging Wangchuk to prioritise his health even as discussions around his demands continue.
