Actor Aamir Khan has finally addressed the long-standing belief that his iconic character Rancho, also known as Phunsukh Wangdu, in 3 Idiots was inspired by Ladakh-based engineer and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk. While clearing the air on the popular misconception, Aamir also expressed deep concern over Wangchuk’s deteriorating health as he continues his indefinite hunger strike in Delhi.
Aamir made the remarks during a special appearance at the closing ceremony of the London Indian Film Festival, where Lagaan was screened to celebrate 25 years of its release. During an interactive session with the audience, the actor was asked about Sonam Wangchuk and the ongoing protest demanding reforms in India’s examination system.
Responding to the question, Aamir clarified that the makers of 3 Idiots were not aware of Sonam Wangchuk when the film was being made. He said the idea that Rancho was based on Wangchuk is simply not true.
“There is a misconception that my character in 3 Idiots was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk. That isn’t true. Neither director Rajkumar Hirani nor writer Abhijat Joshi knew him at that time. I recently saw a video where Omi Vaidya mentioned it, but that isn’t factually correct,” Aamir explained.
However, the actor was quick to add that this clarification should not take away from Wangchuk’s contributions. He praised the education reformer for his work and said he deserves respect for his achievements regardless of any connection to the film.
Aamir also shared his concern over Wangchuk’s health, which has become a growing topic of discussion as the activist continues his fast.
“We are all very worried about his health and his life. We sincerely hope everything ends well and that he decides to end his fast soon,” the actor said.
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Earlier this week, actor Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur Ramalingam in 3 Idiots, had posted a video extending support to Wangchuk. In the video, Omi claimed that the character of Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by the real-life innovator and urged people to pay attention to Wangchuk’s worsening condition. His statement reignited the debate, prompting Aamir to offer clarification.
Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar since June 28. He joined the protest initiated by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), led by Abhijeet Dipke. What began as a movement demanding accountability over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak has now expanded into a larger campaign seeking reforms in India’s competitive examination system.
The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and have proposed a five-point roadmap aimed at improving transparency and fairness in the examination process.
Despite increasing concern over his health after nearly three weeks without food, Wangchuk has refused to end his fast. Instead, he has appealed to supporters not to ask him to eat but to participate in the peaceful “Chalo Sansad” march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the start of the Monsoon Session.
The movement has received support from several members of the film industry, including Abhay Deol, Swara Bhasker, Anurag Kashyap, Sonakshi Sinha, Atul Kulkarni, Sayaji Shinde, Shreya Dhanwanthary and Prakash Raj.
While Aamir Khan has firmly denied that 3 Idiots was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk, his heartfelt message reflects the growing concern shared by many over the activist’s health and the larger conversation surrounding education reforms in the country.
